Loader with improved arm path

ABSTRACT

A compact utility loader compact utility loader comprising a frame, a first track and a second track positioned on either side of the frame, and a pair of loader arms. The loader arms are configured to couple with an attachment via a hitch plate and a hitch pin. The compact utility loader is configured such that as the loader arms are raised and lowered, the hitch pin follows a path approximately defined by a curve f(x)=4.641e 0.34x  The value “x” represents a horizontal direction and the function f(x) represents a vertical direction.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present non-provisional patent application claims priority benefitto prior-filed U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/879,796,filed on Jul. 29, 2019, and entitled “COMPACT UTILITY LOADER”; and U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/984,476, filed on Mar. 3,2020, and entitled “COMPACT UTILITY LOADER.” The entirety of bothabove-identified prior-filed provisional patent applications is herebyincorporated by reference into the present non-provisional patentapplication.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to utilityloaders. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention aredirected to compact utility loaders that can carry and operate a widerange of attachments while maintaining a reduced operating footprint.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are many utility loaders on the market today. Such utility loadersare generally used as hydraulic tool carriers configured to operate avariety of hydraulically-driven tools or attachments. Common attachmentsinclude augers, trenchers, grapples, etc. Other non-hydraulicattachments may also be carried by utility loaders, such as buckets,rakes, etc.

Unfortunately, currently-available utility loaders are commonlymanufactured in large sizes (e.g., having large widths and lengths),which can make the loaders difficult to maneuver and operate. There aresome versions of compact utility loaders that are formed with reducedwidths and/or lengths; however, such compact utility loaders aregenerally manufactured with narrow tracks, which reduces maneuverabilityand can be problematic for load distribution onto the ground. Forinstance, the use of narrow tracks on utility loaders can cause ruts tobe formed in soft ground. As such, there is a need for a compact utilityloader having a small, reduced width but that includes large, oversizedtracks, so as to provide for improved maneuverability and loaddistribution. It would also be beneficial to provide compact utilityloaders that include improved loader arm configurations and enhancedoperator functionalities to improve the operational capabilities of theloader.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a compactutility loader comprising a frame including a lower portion and an upperportion. A width of the lower portion is smaller than a width of theupper portion. The compact utility loader additionally comprises a firsttrack and a second track, with each track being positioned on a side ofthe frame. Each of the tracks has a width of at least “7.5” inches, andthe compact utility loader has an overall width of no more than “36”inches.

Additional embodiments of the present invention include a compactutility loader comprising a frame, an engine, a pair of loader arms, andan attachment secured to ends of the loader arms. The compact utilityloader additionally includes a first track or wheel and a second trackor wheel positioned on either side of the frame. The compact utilityloader additionally comprises a control interface including a graphicdisplay configured to present operational information to an operator.The graphic display is configured to present a login screen promptingthe operator for a passcode. The engine is prevented from being starteduntil a valid passcode is entered via the control interface.

Additionally, embodiments of the present invention include a compactutility loader comprising a frame, a first track and a second trackpositioned on either side of the frame, and a pair of loader arms. Theloader arms are configured to couple with an attachment via a hitchplate and a hitch pin. The compact utility loader is configured suchthat as the loader arms are raised and lowered, the hitch pin follows apath approximately defined by a curve f(x)=4.641e^(0.34x). The value “x”represents a horizontal direction and the function f(x) represents avertical direction.

Additionally, embodiments of the present invention include a compactutility loader comprising a frame and a loader arm configured in avertical-lift configuration. The compact utility loader additionallycomprises a link pivotably secured to the loader arm and to the frame,and an actuator pivotably secured to the loader arm and to the frame.The compact utility loader further comprises a track assembly configuredto maintain the loader arm in direct attachment to the frame.

Additionally, embodiments of the present invention include a compactutility loader comprising a frame, and a pair of loader arms supportedby the frame. The frame includes a right side, a left side, and a bottomside extending between the right side and the left side. The compactutility loader additionally includes an engine mount secured to thebottom side of the frame and spaced apart from each of the left side andthe right side of the frame. The compact utility loader furthercomprises an engine supported on the engine mount.

Additionally, embodiments of the present invention include a compactutility loader comprising a frame, and a loader arm configured tosupport an attachment. The compact utility loader additionally comprisesa first link pivotably secured to the frame, a second link pivotablysecured to the frame, and an actuator configured to raise and lower theloader arm. The actuator is not simultaneously secured to both the frameand the loader arm.

Additional embodiments of the present invention include a compactutility loader comprising a frame, an engine, a pair of loader arms, andan attachment secured to ends of the loader arms. The compact utilityloader additionally includes a first track or wheel and a second trackor wheel positioned on either side of the frame. The compact utilityloader additionally comprises a control interface including a keylessstart mechanism configured to start said engine without requiring aphysical key.

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the detaileddescription. This summary is not intended to identify key features oressential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended tobe used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Other aspectsand advantages of the present invention will be apparent from thefollowing detailed description of the embodiments and the accompanyingdrawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Embodiments of the present invention are described herein with referenceto the following drawing figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a compact utility loader accordingto embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 4 is a rear elevation view of the compact utility loader from FIGS.1-3;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the compact utility loader from FIGS. 1-4;

FIG. 6 is another front perspective view of the compact utility loaderfrom FIGS. 1-5, with a hood being raised to show internal components ofthe compact utility loader;

FIG. 7 is a cross-section of the compact utility loader taken along theline 7-7 from FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the cross-section from FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of a frame and certain internalcomponents, such as an engine, a flywheel, and a pump, of the compactutility loader from FIGS. 1-6;

FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of a powertrain of the compactutility loader from FIGS. 1-6;

FIG. 11 is a side perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS. 1-6, particularly illustrating internal components of the compactutility loader;

FIG. 12 is a cross-section of the compact utility loader taken along theline 12-12 from FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a cross-section of the compact utility loader taken along theline 13-13 from FIG. 11;

FIG. 14a is another perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS. 1-6, particularly illustrating an attachment in the form of abucket being separated from loader arms of the compact utility loader;

FIG. 14b is another perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS. 1-6, particularly illustrating the loader arms raising anattachment in the form of a bucket;

FIG. 15a is side elevation view of the compact utility loader from FIG.14b , particularly illustrating a path traveled by the loader arms whenshifting between a lowered position and a raised position;

FIG. 15b is another side elevation view of the compact utility loaderfrom FIG. 14b , particularly illustrating a continuing path traveled bythe loader arms when shifting between a lowered position and a raisedposition;

FIG. 16 is a graphical representation plotted to illustrate a pathtraveled by loader arms from the compact utility loader from FIGS. 1-6when shifting between a lowered position and a raised position;

FIG. 17a is a partial perspective view of the compact utility loaderfrom FIGS. 1-6, magnified to illustrate a track assembly directlyconnecting a loader arm to a frame of the compact utility loader;

FIG. 17b is another perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS. 1-6, magnified to illustrate a track assembly directly connectinga loader arm to a frame of the compact utility loader and having aportion of the compact utility loader removed to illustrate a rear link,a control link, and an actuator indirectly connecting the loader arm tothe frame;

FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the compact utility loader from FIGS. 17aand 17b , particularly illustrating the track assembly, the rear link,the control link, and the actuator;

FIG. 19a is another partial perspective view of the compact utilityloader from FIGS. 1-6, magnified to illustrate a track assembly directlyconnecting a loader arm to a frame of the compact utility loader, withthe loader arm transitioning between a lowered position and a raisedposition;

FIG. 19b is another partial perspective view similar to FIG. 19a , withthe loader arm in the raised position;

FIG. 20 is a side elevation view of a compact utility loader accordingto a second embodiment of the present invention, with loader arms of thecompact utility loader in a lowered position;

FIG. 21 is a side elevation view of the compact utility loader from FIG.20, with the loader arms in a raised position;

FIG. 22 is a side elevation view of a compact utility loader accordingto a third embodiment of the present invention, with loader arms of thecompact utility loader in a lowered position;

FIG. 23 is a side elevation view of the compact utility loader from FIG.22, with the loader arms in a raised position;

FIG. 24 is a side elevation view of a compact utility loader accordingto a fourth embodiment of the present invention, with loader arms of thecompact utility loader in a lowered position;

FIG. 25 is a side elevation view of the compact utility loader from FIG.24, with the loader arms in a raised position;

FIG. 26 is another rear perspective view of the loader from FIGS. 1-6,particularly illustrating a control station located at a rear of thecompact utility loader;

FIG. 27 is a rear elevation view of the compact utility loader from FIG.26, with a portion of a radiator cut away to illustrate a fan positionedbelow a control panel of the compact utility loader;

FIG. 28 is another rear elevation view of the compact utility loaderfrom FIG. 27, with the control panel raised to illustrate pilot controlvalve assemblies associated with joysticks of the compact utilityloader;

FIG. 29 is graphical user interface in the form of a Login Screen thatcan be presented on a graphic display of the compact utility loader ofembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 30 is a graphical user interface in the form of an initial versionof an Operations Screen that can be presented on a graphic display ofthe compact utility loader of embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 31 is a graphical user interface in the form of an additionalversion of an Operations Screen that can be presented on a graphicdisplay of the compact utility loader of embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 32 is a graphical user interface in the form of yet an additionalversion of an Operations Screen that can be presented on a graphicdisplay of the compact utility loader of embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 33 is a graphical user interface in the form of still an additionalversion of an Operations Screen that can be presented on a graphicdisplay of the compact utility loader of embodiments of the presentinvention; and

FIG. 34 is another partial rear perspective view of the compact utilityloader from FIGS. 1-6, particularly illustrating a control panel beingraised to provide access to a radiator and fan for cleaning.

The drawing figures do not limit the present invention to the specificembodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearlyillustrating the principles of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description of the present invention referencesvarious embodiments. The embodiments are intended to describe aspects ofthe invention in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art topractice the invention. Other embodiments can be utilized and changescan be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in alimiting sense. The scope of the present invention is defined only bythe appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to whichsuch claims are entitled.

General

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a utility loader 10(the “loader 10”), as illustrated in exemplary FIGS. 1-5. Broadly, theloader 10 may comprise a frame 12 supported on the ground by a driveassembly 14. As will be discussed in more detail below, in addition tosupporting the loader 10 on the ground, the drive assembly 14 isconfigured to propel the loader 10 over the ground. The loader 10 mayadditionally comprise a pair of vertically-shiftable loader arms 16supported by the frame 12. The loader arms 16 are configured to supportvarious types of attachments 18 for performing various types of work, asrequired by an operator of the loader 10. The loader 10 may include acontrol station 20 positioned at a rear of the frame 12. The controlstation 20 may include a control panel 22 (See FIGS. 1, 4, and 5) with aplurality of control elements (e.g., buttons, switches, levers,joysticks, etc.) to permit the operator to control operation of theloader 10, as will be described in more detail below.

As used herein, directional terms are implemented from the perspectiveof an operator standing at the control station 20 (located at the rearof the loader 10) and facing the opposite end of the loader 10 (i.e.,facing a front end of the loader 10. Thus, the terms “front” and“forward” mean a longitudinal direction towards the front end of theloader 10. It is noted that the attachment 18 is supported at the frontend of the loader by connection to front ends of the loader arms 16. Theterms “back,” “rear”, or “rearward” mean a longitudinal directiontowards the back end of the loader 10 which includes the control station20. The term “left” or “leftward” means a left lateral direction fromthe perspective of the operator standing at the control station 20 andfacing forward, and the terms “right” or “rightward” means a rightlateral direction from the perspective of the operator standing at thecontrol station 20 and facing forward.

The loader 10 may comprise a “compact utility loader” or a “CUL.” Asused herein the term “compact utility loader” refers to a loader that isa self-propelled machine having an operating mass of less than about3400 pounds and having one or more loader arms configured to supportvarious interchangeable, attachments that are operably connected withfront ends of the loader arms. The attachments may be tools that havehydraulically-driven auxiliary functions, such as augers, grinders,tillers, rollers, trenchers, digger derrick, or the like. Alternatively,the attachments may comprise buckets, forks, or the like. Often, acompact utility loader will be operated by an operator standing on, orwalking behind, a rear end of the loader. Compact utility loaders aredifferent from standard loaders, such as skid-steer loaders, which arelarge and quite heavy. Generally, an operator of such a standard loader(e.g., a skid-steer loader) will operate the loader while seated in anoperating compartment of the loader. Beneficially, because compactutility loaders have a smaller size and weight than standard loaders(e.g., a skid-steer loaders), compact utility loaders can be much moremaneuverable and provide more efficient load/weight distribution thanstandard loaders.

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a loader 10 withloader arms 16 having a “vertical-lift configuration.” As used herein,the term “vertical-lift configuration” means a configuration of loaderarms 16 in which the entirety of the loader arms shifts its positionupward, downward, forward, and/or rearward with respect to the frame 12of the loader 10 as the loader arms transition between lowered andraised positions. Such vertical-lift configured loader arms canbeneficially raise an attachment (e.g., a bucket or other tool) along asubstantially vertical path. A vertical-lift configuration is differentfrom a “pivot-lift configuration” (also commonly referred to as a“radial lift configuration) in which the loader arms are secured to theframe via a fixed pivot point. As such the portion of the loader armsthat are fixed to the frame via the pivot points do not shift itsposition upward, downward, forward, and/or rearward with respect to theframe (as is required for a vertical-lift configuration). In apivot-lift configuration, the forward ends of the loader arms travelfurther away (in a forward direction) from the frame of the loader(and/or a center of gravity of the loader) while the loader arms arebeing moved between lowered and raised positions. The attachment (e.g.,the bucket) being supported by the loader arms may be supporting a heavyload, such that the shifting the attachment too far away from theloader's center of gravity can cause the loader to tip forward, whichcan be dangerous to the operator, as well as the loader and its load.Another advantage of a vertical lift configuration over a pivot-liftconfiguration is when the loader arms are completely raised, thepivot-lift configuration brings its loads back toward the middle of theloader, thus, making it more difficult to dump (in the embodiments inwhich the attachment is a bucket) into a container or dump truck. Avertical-lift configuration has the advantage of more reach away fromthe loader when the loader arms are fully lifted.

Returning to the loader 10 of embodiments of the present invention inmore detail, and with reference to FIG. 6, the frame 12 may form ahousing that defines an interior compartment within which variouscomponents of the loader 10 (e.g., engine, hydraulic system, etc.) arehoused and supported, as will be discussed in more detail below. Turningto FIGS. 7-9, the frame 12 may comprise a left side 30 and a right side32, which are connected together via a bottom side 34. As such, theframe 12 presents the interior compartment for supporting variouscomponents of the loader 10. Returning to FIGS. 3 and 6, a hood 36 maybe hingedly connected a top of the frame 14 so as to enclose and presenta covering for the components supported with the interior compartment ofthe frame 12 of the loader 10. The hood 36 may be formed from plastic,fiberglass, or other similar material. As shown in FIG. 6, the hood canbe raised (See FIG. 6) so as to provide access to the componentssupported with the interior compartment of the frame 12 of the loader 10so as to facilitate efficient service and maintenance of the loader 10.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the drive assembly 14 of the loader maycomprise a pair of endless tracks 40 that extend from either exteriorside of the frame 12. In more detail, the drive assembly 14 may comprisea pair of track frames 42, with each track frame 42 being rigidlysecured to one exterior side of the frame 12 of the loader 10. Asperhaps best shown in FIG. 9 the left side track frame 42 may be rigidlysecured (e.g., via welding) to the left side 30 of the frame 12, so asto extend laterally away from the frame 12. Similarly, the right sidetrack frame 42 may be rigidly secured (e.g., via welding) to the rightside 32 of the frame 12, so as to extend laterally away from the frame12. One of the tracks 40 may loop around each of the track frames 42 soas to present a left track 42 and a right track 40. As shown in FIGS. 1and 2, the track frames 42 may include one or more wheels (e.g., idlerwheels, bogey wheels, etc.) rotatably secured thereto, so as to permitthe tracks 40 to rotate around the track frames 42. The tracks 40 may beformed from rubber, metal, or combinations thereof. Although the loader10 is illustrated as having tracks 40, in some embodiments, the loader10 may include one or more wheels on each side 30, 32 of the frame 12 tosupport and to propel the loader 10.

To facilitate rotation of the tracks 42, the drive assembly 14 mayadditionally comprise a pair of drive sprockets 44 positioned on eitherexterior side of the frame 12 of the loader 10, as shown in FIGS. 1 and2. Specifically, in some embodiments, a left side drive sprocket 44 mayextend from the left side 30 of the frame at a position above the leftside track frame 42. Similarly, a right side drive sprocket 44 mayextend from the right side 32 of the frame 12 at a position above theleft side track frame 42. Each of the tracks 40 may be looped aroundboth of the associated track frame 42 and drive sprocket 44. As such,the tracks 40 may be configured in a triangular shape. As perhaps bestshown in FIG. 8, an interior surface of the tracks 40 may be formed withnubs that engage with teeth of the drive sprockets 44, such thatrotation of the drive sprockets 44 will cause a corresponding rotationof the tracks 40. As such, the loader 10 can be propelled by rotatingthe drive sprockets 44, which causes rotation of the tracks 40.

To assist in providing enhanced maneuverability and weight distributionof the loader 10, the loader 10 may be configured to have both a small,overall width (relative to other common, previously-used loaders) butlarge or oversized tracks 40. In more detail, and with reference to FIG.7, the loader 10 may have an overall, lateral width W1 (i.e., extendingfrom the lateral-most point on each side of the loader 10) that is nomore than 44 inches, no more than 42 inches, no more than 40 inches, nomore than 38 inches, no more than 36 inches, no more than 34 inches, nomore than 32 inches, no more than 30 inches, or no more than 28 inches.In addition, the loader 10 may include tracks 40 that each have a widthW2 of at 7.5 inches, least 8 inches, at least 9 inches, at least 10inches, at least 11 inches, or at least 12 inches. In some embodiments,a ratio of the track width W2 to the overall width W1 of the loader 10may be at least 1:4, at least 5:18, at least 1:3, at least 7:18, or atleast 4:9. Such a configuration (i.e., a loader 10 having a narrowoverall width W1 and tracks 40 having a large width W2) permits theloader 10 to be highly maneuverable, while maintaining preferredload/weight distribution onto the ground. As such, the loader 10 cansuccessfully maneuver in tight spaces (e.g., through lawn gates) andover various types of terrain (e.g., soft or muddy ground) withoutcausing ruts while carrying different types of attachments (e.g., ahydraulically-driven attachment or a bucket) to perform various types ofoperations. In certain embodiments, the use of such large, oversizedtracks 40 will allow the loader 10 to exert a pressure of no more than3.7 pounds per square inch (psi), no more than 3.8 psi, no more than 3.9psi, no more than 4.0 psi, or no more than 4.1 psi onto the ground. Suchpressure is exerted on the ground even in embodiments in which theloader 10 weighs between 3000 and 3400 pounds, between 3100 and 3300pounds, or about 3200 pounds.

Returning to the frame 12, the loader 10 is configured to have (i) agenerally narrow overall width W1 (e.g., about 36 inches wide), and (ii)a pair of generally large, oversized tracks 10 (e.g., each about 10inches wide), in part, due to the frame 12 (or at least a portionthereof) being shaped in the form of the letter “T.” As illustrated inFIG. 7, a cross-section of the loader 10 illustrates how the frame 12 isformed in a “T” shape. In more detail, the frame 12 may broadly comprisean upper portion 46 and a lower portion 48. Specifically, the left side30 of the frame 12 may comprise an upper panel 30(a) and a lower panel30(b), which are connected by a lateral panel 30(c). Similarly, theright side 32 of the frame 12 may comprise an upper panel 32(a) and alower panel 32(b), which are connected by a lateral panel 32(c). Theupper panels 30(a), 32(a) may form the upper portion 46 of the frame 12,while the lower panels 30(b), 32(b) may form the lower portions 48 ofthe frame 12. The bottom side 34 of the frame 12 may also form part ofthe lower portion 48 of the frame 12. To provide the frame 12 with theT-shape, the lower portion 48 of the frame 12 may have a width W3 thatis less than a width W4 of the upper portion 46. In some specificembodiments, the width W3 may be between 11 and 19 inches, between 13and 17 inches, or about 15 inches, while the width W4 may be aboutbetween 17 and 25 inches, between 19 and 23 inches, or about 21 inches.As such, in some embodiments, a ratio between the width W3 and W4 willbe between 3:5 and 4:5, between 3:5 and 13:15, or about 7:10 (or about2:3, or about 11:15, or about 4:5).

Given the differences in width between the lower portion 48 and theupper portion 46 of the frame 12, the frame 12 may present track wells49, as perhaps shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, configured to receive at least aportion of the tracks 40 of the loader 10. The track wells 49 may bedefined by the space below the lateral panels 30(c), 32(c) and to theexterior side of the lower panels 30(b), 32(b). In more detail, andreturning to FIG. 7, and as was described previously, the loader 10 mayinclude a track frame 42 extending from each lateral side of the lowerportion 46 the frame 12. Specifically, the track frames 42 may besecured to (e.g., via welding) and extend laterally away from the lowerpanels 30(b), 32(b) of the loader 10 frame 12. As was described above,each track frame 42 is configured to support a large, oversized track40. As such, the tracks 40 will be positioned within the wells 49, atleast partly underneath the upper portions 46 of the frame 12. Such aconfiguration permits the use of large, oversized tracks 40 whileallowing loader 10 to have a small overall width W1.

In certain embodiments, the frame 12 of the loader 10 may have afront-to-back length (excluding the attachment 18) of between 60 and 100inches, between 70 and 90 inches, or about 85 inches. The frame 12 ofthe loader 10 may have a top-to-bottom height (as measured with theloader arms 16 in the down position) of between 40 and 70 inches,between 50 and 60 inches, or about 55 inches. In some embodiments, theloader 10 will be configured with a ground clearance (as measured fromthe ground to the bottom side 34 of the frame of between 6 and 10inches, between 7 and 9 inches, or about 7.5 inches.

Some embodiments of the present invention are further configured toprovide the loader 10 with a small overall width W1 and large, oversizedtracks 40 by providing for the sprockets 44 to be formed in a conicalshape. In more detail, with reference to FIG. 8 (such conical shape isalso illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2), the sprockets 44 may have a circularbase about which a plurality of teeth are circumferentially spaced.Generally, the base of each sprocket 44 will be positioned adjacent tothe respective side 30, 32 of the frame 10. A rotational axis of eachsprocket 44 will generally extend through a center of the circular baseof the sprocket 44. From the base, the sprockets 44 each extendlaterally outward while narrowing to a hub so as to provide the sprocket44 with the conical shape. In some embodiments, the sprockets 44 willextend from the base to the hub via a plurality of circumferentiallyspaced spokes. The rotational axis of each sprocket 44 will generallyextend through a center of the hub of the sprocket 44. In view of theabove description, the sprockets 44 will have a conical shape with aradius (i.e., a distance from the rotational axis to an outer edge ofthe base) or a diameter of the base being larger than a radius (i.e., adistance from the rotational axis to an outer edge of the hub) or adiameter of the hub. Thus, the diameter of the sprockets 44 becomeslarger as the sprockets extend from outboard to inboard when positionedon the loader 10.

As noted above, the conical shape of the sprockets 44 assists inallowing the loader 10 to have a generally small overall width W1, yetlarge, oversized tracks 40. Specifically, the loader 10 may include apair of hydraulic motors 50 positioned on either side of the frame 12 (aschematic depiction of a powertrain of the loader 10 is shown in FIG.10, with the powertrain including the motors 50, an engine 52, ahydraulic pump 54, and a flywheel 56). Portions of the powertrain arealso illustrated within the loader 10 in FIGS. 9 and 11. In someembodiments, the motors 50 may be attached to an exterior side of theleft and right sides 30, 32 of the frame 12. For instance, the motors 50may be attached to the lower panels 30(b), 32(b) of the frame 12. Insome specific embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 12, the motors 50 mayeach be at least partially enclosed in a motor housing 58 that formspart of the left and right sides 30, 32 of the frame 12 (the left sidemotor 50 is not shown in FIG. 12, only the left side motors housing 58is shown). Each of the motors 50 may include a driveshaft that extendslaterally from the frame 12. An end of each driveshaft is configured tosecure to the hub of an associated sprocket 44. As such, the motors 50are configured to rotate their driveshafts and, thus, the sprockets 44.Because of the conical shape of the sprockets 44, the bases of thesprockets will be positioned inward away from the hub and towards theframe 12 of the loader 10. As noted previously, the teeth of thesprockets 44 are positioned on the base of the sprockets 44. Due to theconical shape of the sprockets 44, the teeth of the sprockets 44 can bepositioned inward, closer to the sides 30, 32 of the frame 12. As wasdescribed previously, the teeth of the sprockets 44 engage with the nubson the tracks 40 to cause the tracks 40 to actuate. Stated differently,the base of the sprockets 44 (which are the inboard-most portion of thesprockets 44) are the portions of the sprockets 44 that engage withtheir respective tracks 40. The nubs are generally positioned at acenter of the tracks 40. As a result of the teeth being positionedcloser to the sides 30, 32 of the frame 12, the tracks 40 can likewisebe positioned closer to the sides 30, 32 of the frame 12. By allowingthe tracks 40 to be positioned closer to the sides 30, 32 of the frame12, the left and right side tracks 40 can be positioned closer together,such that the loader 10 can have a generally small overall width W1, yetuse large, oversized tracks 40.

The loader 10 may additionally include a stop element 59, as illustratedin FIG. 8, which extends from one of the sides 30, 32 of the frame 12and is configured to selectively engage with a sprocket 44 so as toprevent rotation of the sprocket 44 and, thus, to prevent rotation ofthe track 40. In some embodiments, the loader 10 will include a stopelement 59 extending from each side 30, 32 of the frame, such that oneof the stop elements 59 can engage with each of the left side sprocket44 and the right side sprocket 44 so as to prevent actuation of both theleft side and the right side track 40. The stop elements 59 may behydraulically actuated from retracted positions, in which the stopelements 59 do not engage with the sprockets 44 (and, thus, do notprevent rotation of the sprockets 44), to an extended position where thestop elements are engaged with the sprockets by being positioned betweenadjacent teeth of the sprockets 44 (and, thus, restrict rotation of thesprockets 44). With the stop elements 59 engaged with the sprockets 44,the stop elements 59 may function as parking brakes or emergency brakesfor the loader 10, so as to prevent the loader 10 from inadvertent orunwanted movement by inhibiting rotation of the sprockets 44 and/oractuation of the tracks 40.

An interior compartment presented by the frame 12 of the loader 10 isdepicted in FIG. 9. The interior compartment is configured to receive,house, and support various components of the loader 10, such as theengine 52 and the hydraulic pump 54. In more detail, the engine 52 maybe generally positioned towards a rear of the frame 12, within a rearportion of the interior compartment. Such rearward shifting of theengine 52 provides space for secondary, internal components of theloader 10 to be positioned within a front portion of the interiorcompartment. Such internal components include portions of a hydraulicsystem of the loader 10, such as a hydraulic pump 54, a hydraulic fluidreservoir, hydraulic lines, and the like. The secondary, internalcomponents may additionally include a fuel tank, fuel lines, a hydraulicfilter, a fuel filter, a water separator, and the like. Such internalcomponents can be easily accessed by lifting the hood 36, which coversthe internal components during operation, as is illustrated by FIG. 6.

The hydraulic pump 54 is also positioned within the interior compartmentforward of the engine 52. In some embodiments, the flywheel 56 will bepositioned between the engine 52 and the hydraulic pump 54. Regardless,the hydraulic pump 54 will generally be positioned between the hydraulicmotors 50 (illustrated schematically in FIG. 10), such that thehydraulic pump 54 can provide hydraulic power to the motors 50 so as todrive the motors 50 (which themselves drive the conical sprockets 44and, thus, the tracks 40). As such, the engine 52 will be positionedrearward of the hydraulic motors 50. In more detail, the engine 52 maybe an internal combustion engine, such as a diesel engine, thatgenerates power to be used by the hydraulic pump 54. As notedpreviously, the hydraulic pump 54 provides pressurized hydraulic fluidto the motors 50 to actuate the sprockets 44 and tracks 40. In someembodiments, the hydraulic pump 54 may include and/or may be associatedwith a hydrostatic transmission which provides hydraulic fluid to themotors 50 to drive the sprockets 44 and tracks 40. The flywheel 56 maybe used to maintain a consistent power output from the motor duringvarying RPMs. In certain embodiments, the flywheel 56 may include ahousing that houses the internal components of the flywheel 56.

To support the engine 52 and the flywheel 56, embodiments of the presentinvention may include support brackets (illustrated in FIGS. 9 and11-13) that beneficially do not contact the sides 30, 32 of the frame12. In more detail, as shown in FIGS. 9, 11, and 13, the loader 10 mayinclude an improved stabilized engine mount 60. The engine mount 60 isconfigured to secure the engine 52 to the frame 12 at points below theengine 52, instead of traditional methods that might secure the engine52 at the side of the engine 52. In more detail, as perhaps best shownin FIGS. 11 and 13, the engine mount 60 is secured to the bottom side 34of the frame 12, so as to secure the engine 52 to the bottom side 34 ofthe frame 12. As such, the engine 52 is free of attachment to either ofthe sides 30, 32 of the frame 12, as shown in the top plan view of FIG.9. The engine 52 being free of attachment to the sides 30, 32 of theframe 12 increases the area around the engine 52 that an operator orrepairman may reach to perform various repair, service, and/ormaintenance tasks. Further, for removal of the engine 52 from theinterior compartment, the engine 52 may be released from the enginemount 60 and/or the bottom side 34 of the frame 12 via an access port 61formed in the bottom side 34 of the frame 12 forward of the engine mount60 (See, e.g., FIG. 11). The access port 61 may have a rectangular shapeand may generally be covered by a panel that can be removed (e.g., viarelease of fasteners) so as to provide access to the access port 61.Such release of the engine 52 from the engine mount 60 may beadvantageously performed even before the full weight of the engine 52 isotherwise supported (e.g., by a lift, crane, or the like).

As was described above, and as illustrated in FIGS. 9, 11, and 13, theengine 52 is supported towards the rear of the loader 10 by the enginemount 60, which is supported on the bottom side 34 of the frame 12. Asperhaps best illustrated in FIG. 13, the engine mount 60 may comprises abase element 60(a), a vertically extending left extension bracket 60(b),a vertically extending right extension bracket 60(c), and a frameattachment component 60(d). As such, the base element 60(a) extendslaterally between the left and right extension brackets 60(b) and (c),which extend upward from the base element 60(a). Thus, in someembodiments, the engine mount 60 may be at least partially formed with aU-shape when viewed from the front or the back (see, e.g., FIG. 13). Insome embodiments, the frame attachment component 60(d) will be securedto the bottom side 34 of the loader 10 frame 12 via welding orfasteners. However, in other embodiments, the frame attachment component60(d) may be integrally formed with the bottom side 34 of the loader 10frame 12, in which case the frame attachment component 60(d) may formpart of the loader 10 frame 12 instead of the engine mount 60. The basesegment 60(a) may be secured to the frame attachment component 60(d),such as via a fastener that is accessible from the access port 61 forefficient removal of the engine 52 (such as for service, repair, orreplacement). If necessary, the engine mount 60 may also be removed fromthe frame 12 of the loader 10.

It should be appreciated that the engine mount 60 is physicallyseparated from the sides 30, 32 of the frame 12, as illustrated in FIG.9, so as to improve access to the engine 52 for maintenance and repairsthereof. Upper ends of the left extension bracket 60(b) and the rightextension bracket 60(c) may be secured to the left and right sides ofthe engine 52, respectively, such as via fasteners (See, e.g., FIG. 11),so as to keep the engine 52 stable and structurally supported to theframe 12. Specifically, the engine 52 will generally be positionedbetween and secured to the left extension bracket 60(b) and the rightextension bracket 60(c).

In addition, the loader 10 may include an improved stabilized flywheelmount 62, as illustrated in FIGS. 9, 11, and 12. The flywheel mount 62is configured to secure the flywheel 56 to the frame 12 at points belowthe flywheel 56. Specifically, the flywheel mount 62 is configured tosecure the housing of flywheel 56 to the frame 12. In more detail, theflywheel mount 62 is secured to the bottom side 34 of the frame 12, soas to secure the flywheel 56 (or the housing of the flywheel 56 morespecifically) to the bottom side 34 of the frame 12. As such, theflywheel 56 and/or the housing of the flywheel 56 is free of attachmentto the sides 30, 32 of the frame 12. The flywheel 56 and/or the housingof the flywheel 56 being free of attachment to the sides 30, 32 of theframe 12 increases the area around the flywheel 56 that an operator orrepairman may reach to perform various service, repair, and maintenancetasks. Further, for removal of the flywheel 56 from the interiorcompartment, the flywheel 56 may be released from the flywheel mount 62and/or the bottom side 34 of the frame 12 via the access port 61previously described, or a second access port 63 formed in the bottomside 34 of the frame 12 forward of the flywheel mount 62 (See, e.g.,FIG. 11). The access port 63 may have a rectangular shape and maygenerally be covered by a panel that can be removed (e.g., via releaseof fasteners) so as to provide access to the access port 63. Suchrelease of the flywheel 56 may be performed even before the full weightof the flywheel 56 is otherwise supported (e.g., by a lift, crane, orthe like).

With respect to FIG. 12, the flywheel mount 62 is shown secured to boththe bottom side 34 of the frame 12 and the flywheel 56 (or the housingof the flywheel 56 more specifically). The flywheel mount 62 is securedto the bottom side 34 of the frame 12 by two lower fasteners, which aresecured to a protrusion that extends upward from the bottom 34 side ofthe frame 12. Such a protrusion is illustrated as a trapezoidal prism.The fasteners allow for the flywheel mount 62 to be released from theframe 12 if necessary.

The flywheel mount 62 may have a generally V-shape (when viewed from thefront or back as shown in FIG. 12) and comprises a left protrusion 62(a)and a right protrusion 62(b), which are each secured to one of therespective downward protrusions of the flywheel 56 (or the housing ofthe flywheel 56 more specifically). An upper fastener is disposedbetween the flywheel 56 (or the housing of the flywheel 56 morespecifically) and each of the left and right protrusions 62(a) and (b)of the flywheel mount 62. Such upper fasteners may be removed forremoval of the flywheel 56 from the flywheel mount 62.

Remaining with FIGS. 9 and 11, the hydraulic pump 54 may be secured tothe frame 12 via a pump bracket 64 that is directly connected to one ofthe sides 30, 32 of the frame 12. The pump bracket 64 may be used tobrace the pump 54 to reduce vibrations or to otherwise stabilize thepump 54.

Shown in FIG. 9 are the engine mount 60 and the flywheel mount 62 beingdisposed within the internal compartment of the frame 12 defined by theleft side 30, the right 32, and the bottom side 34. It should beappreciated that the engine mount 60 and the flywheel mount 62 are bothphysically separated from the sides 30, 32 of the frame 12, such that agap exists between both the engine mount 60 and the flywheel mount 62and the sides 30, 32 of the frame 12. Instead, the engine mount 60 andthe flywheel mount 62 are both secured to the bottom side 34 of theframe 12. The engine mount 60 and the flywheel mount 62 both extendupwardly from the bottom side 34 of the frame 12 and are free ofconnection to the sides 30, 32 of the frame 12. The engine mount 60 andthe flywheel mount 62 both secure to their respective components (i.e.,the engine 52 and the flywheel 56) away from a geometric center of suchcomponents (i.e., connection is made to the sides of the components) soas to provide lateral stability while still enabling easy access to thesides of the engine 52 and flywheel 56, respectively. As such, and insummary, the engine 52 is positioned within a rearward portion of theinterior compartment and is secured to the bottom side 34 of the frame12 via the engine mount 60. A forward end of the engine 52 is secured toa rearward end of the flywheel 56 (and/or a rearward end of the housingthat supports the components of flywheel 56), which is secured to thebottom side 34 of the frame 12 via the flywheel mount 62. A forward endof the flywheel 56 (and/or a forward end of the housing that supportsthe components of flywheel 56) is secured to a rearward end of the pump54, which is secured to one of the sides 30, 32 of the frame 12 at afront end of the pump 54.

As shown above, the fasteners of the flywheel housing mount 62 and theengine mount 60 may be accessed from below the loader 10 for removal ofthe engine 52 and/or flywheel 56. Specifically, the two access ports 61,63 are disposed in the bottom side 34 of the frame 12 to allow foraccess to the respective fasteners, as well as other components of theloader 10 (e.g., for access to and efficient removal of the pump 54).

Loader Arm Configuration

Embodiments of the present invention include improved, stabilized loaderarms 16 for the loader 10, as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 14 a (withthe loader arms 16 in a lowered position) and FIG. 14b (with the loaderarms 16 in a raised position). In more detail, and as will be discussedin more detail below, the loader arms 16 may be retained adjacent toand/or secured or attached directly to the frame 12. By being retainedadjacent to and/or secured or attached directly to the frame 12,embodiments of the present invention inhibit lateral or yawing motion ofthe loader arms 16, such as when the loader arms 16 are loaded with aheavy or an uneven load or when the loader 10 is driving over uneventerrain. Although the loader arms 16, which are described in more detailbelow, are retained adjacent to and/or secured or attached directly tothe frame 12, the loader arms 16 are nevertheless configured in avertical-lift configuration. As such, the loader arms 16 provide theloader 10 with advantages of a vertical-lift configuration, such raisingloads substantially vertically while keeping the loader arms 16 securelyaligned with the frame 12 of the loader 10. Additional benefits of theloader arms 16 having the vertical-lift configuration include keepingloads longitudinally close to a center of gravity of the loader 10.Further, loads are generally prevented from being raised directly overthe top of the loader 10, to minimize risks of loads striking the loader10 or impacting the operator when being lifted. Such benefits aregenerally not provided by traditional, pivot-lift configured loader armswhich actuate in a wide arcuate motion. Such arcuate motion oftenincludes the attachment bringing the loads above the loader, which canpose a danger to the loader and/or to the operator.

In more detail, the loader arms 16 of the loader 10 are configured tooperate with an extended reach and enhanced breakout strength. FIGS. 15aand 15b illustrate a travel path 66 made by front ends of the loaderarms 16 (and/or of the attachment 18 supported by the loader arms 16) asthe loader arms 16 transition between the lowered and raised positions.FIG. 15a shows an initial portion of the travel path 66 from the loweredposition to an intermediate position, while FIG. 15b illustrates asecondary portion of the travel path 66 from the intermediate positionto the raised position. In more detail, the travel path 66 may bedefined as a path travelled by an attachment hitch pin 68 of the loader10 (when viewing the loader 10 from a side elevation, see e.g., FIGS.15a and 15b ). In more detail, each of the loader arms 16 may include anattachment hitch pin 68 positioned at the front end of the respectiveloader arm 16. The attachment hitch pins 68 may be used to connect anattachment 18 to the loader arms 16. Specifically, as shown in FIGS.14a-15b , the hitch pins 68 may secure a hitch plate 69 (e.g., a quickhitch assembly) to the loader arms 16, with the hitch plate 69comprising a connection assembly configurable to secure attachments tothe loader arms 16. The hitch plate 69 is generally configured tosupport one or more types of attachments 18 thereon.

Turning to FIG. 16, the travel path 66 of the loader arms 16 isillustrated on a two-dimensional axis (i.e., an “x” “y” axis). As shown,the travel path 66 may approximate the function:

f(x)=4.641e ^(0.34x).

The horizontal direction (e.g., the forward/rearward direction) traveledby the loader arms 16 and/or the hitch pins 68 represents the “x”coordinate, while the vertical direction (e.g., the upward/downwarddirection) traveled by the loader arms 16 and/or the hitch pins 68represents the “y” coordinate. Stated differently, for each “x”coordinate there is corresponding “y” coordinate, such that the set of“y” coordinates can be represented by the function “f(x).” When theloader arms 16 are completely lowered, the hitch pin 68 is positioned ina base position, where as illustrated in FIG. 16, the “x” coordinateequals 0 and f(x) equals 4.641 (i.e., the hitch pin 68 is positioned at4.641 inches above the ground). Furthermore, a maximum vertical heightof the loader arms 16 (as defined by the vertical height of the hitchpin 68 above the ground) may be at least 80 inches, at least 82 inches,at least 84 inches, at least 85 inches, at least 86 inches, at least 87inches, or at least 88 inches. In some embodiments, the actual path 66travelled by the loader arms 16 and/or the hitch pin 68 will deviate nomore than 1.5, no more than 1.4, no more than 1.3, no more than 1.2, nomore than 1.1, or no more than 1.0 inches in the horizontal direction(i.e., the “x” coordinate value) from the curve f(x)=4.641e^(0.34x) foreach “y” coordinate value. A maximum horizontal reach of the loader arms16 (as defined by the forward, longitudinal reach of the hitch pin 68)may be at least 6 inches, at least 7 inches, at least 8 inches, at least9 inches, or at least 10 inches forward of the base position.

In some further embodiments, as perhaps show, in FIGS. 1 and 13, one orboth of the loader arms 16 of the loader 10 may include a rotatablehydraulic line guide 70 secured to an exterior side of the loader arms16. The line guide 70 may comprise a ring-shaped (e.g., circular oroval) element rotatably connected to a loader arm 16 via a fastener. Ingeneral, the fastener will be positioned horizontally and will provide arotational axis about which the line guide 70 is free to rotate withrespect to the loader arms 16. The line guide 70 is configured toreceive hydraulic lines, tubes, or hoses that may extend from theinterior compartment of the loader 10 to the attachment 18. In someembodiments, such hydraulic lines will extend (at least partially)through an interior of the loader arms 16. In other embodiments, suchlines may extend (at least partially) along an exterior of the loaderarms 16. Rotation of the line guide 70 permits that hydraulic lines tobe securely held in place as the loader arms 16 and/or the attachment 18moves (e.g., as the loader arms 16 shifting upward and downward). Such aline guide 70 also prevents premature wearing and other damage to thehydraulic lines over time.

As noted above, embodiments provide for the loader 10 to include loaderarms 16 having a vertical-lift configuration but which are stabilized bydirect connection to the frame 12, as illustrated in FIGS. 17a and 17b .As was also described above, the frame 12 may comprise an upper portion46 and a lower portion 48. The lower portion 48 of the frame 12 isconfigured to support the track frames 42 (which supports the tracks 40)and the drive sprockets 44. The upper portion 46 of the frame 12 isconfigured to support the loader arms 16 via a direct connection betweenthe frame 12 and the loader arms 16, as is shown in FIGS. 17a and 17b .It should be understood that in some embodiments, the upper portion 46and the lower portion 48 are integrally formed elements of the frame 12.Nevertheless, the upper portion 46 may comprise the two spaced apartgenerally vertical upper panels 30(a), 32(a). In some embodiments, theupper panels 30(a), 32(a) are generally mirrored and parallel with eachother. Similarly, the lower portion 48 may comprise the two spaced apartgenerally vertical lower panels 30(b), 32(b). In some embodiments, thelower panels 30(b), 32(b) are generally mirrored and parallel with eachother.

In more detail, and with reference to FIGS. 17a-19b , each of the loaderarms 16 may be attached to the frame 12 via a rear link 72, a controllink 74, an actuator 76, and a track assembly 78. Although FIGS. 17a-19bfocus on the left side rear link 72, the left side control link 74, theleft side actuator 76, and the left side track assembly 78, it should beunderstood that the loader 10 includes corresponding components on theright side of the loader which are configured in a mirrored or parallelrelationship with the right side components (see, e.g., FIGS. 2-5). Suchmirrored or parallel relationship is maintained as the loader arms 16transition between lowered and raised positions. In more detail, a leftside loader arm 16 may be attached to the left side 30 of the frame 12via a left side rear link 72, a left side control link 74, a left sideactuator 76, and a left side track assembly 78. Similarly, a right sideloader arm 16 may be attached to the right side 32 of the frame 12 via aright side rear link 72, a right side control link 74, a right sideactuator 76, and a right side track assembly 78. The rear links 72, thecontrol links 74, and the actuators 76 provide an indirectconnection/attachment between the loader arms 16 and the frame 12 of theloader 10, while the track assemblies 78 provide a directconnection/attachment between the loader arms 16 and the frame 12 of theloader 10.

In some embodiments, a length of the rear link 72 is approximately equalto a length of the control link 74. In other embodiments, the length ofthe rear link 72 is between 70 to 130, between 80 to 120, or between 90to 110 percent of the length of the control link 74. Furthermore, insome embodiments, a length of the actuator 76 is larger than the lengthsof the rear link 72 and the control length 10. For instance, with theactuator 76 in an extended position, the length of the actuator 76 maybe at least 50 percent, at least 75 percent, at least 100 percent, or atleast 150 percent greater than the lengths of the rear length 72 and thecontrol link 74.

Each of the rear links 72 is rotatably secured (e.g., via a pivot pinconnection) to one of the sides of the frame 12 and rotatably secured(e.g., via a pivot pin connection) to a rear or proximal end of anassociated loader arm 16. Each of the control links 74 is rotatablysecured (e.g., via a pivot pin connection) to one of the sides of theframe 12 and rotatably secured (e.g., via a pivot pin connection) to anassociated loader arm 16 at a position forward of the rear or proximalend of the loader arm 16. Each of the actuators 76 is rotatably secured(e.g., via a pivot pin connection) to one of the sides of the frame 12and rotatably secured (e.g., via a pivot pin connection) to anassociated loader arm 16 at a position forward of the rear or proximalend of the loader arm 16, and in some embodiments, forward of the pointsof connection of the rear and control links 72, 74. As perhaps bestshown in FIGS. 17a and 18, each side of the loader 10 may include acover panel 77 that covers lower portions of the rear link 72 and theactuator 76, so as to cover the connections between the rear link 72 andthe actuator 76 to the frame 12. In some embodiments, connection betweenthe rear link 72 and the actuator 76 to the frame 12 may include aconnection with the cover panel 77. In some embodiments, the coverpanels 77 may form part of the frame 12.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 17 a, and 17 b, the loader arms 16 are disposed ina lowered position. In this lowered position, the rear links 72 aredisposed in a substantially vertical orientation, the control links 74are disposed at a substantially horizontal orientation, and theactuators 76 are disposed at an angle therebetween. It should also benoted that each of the actuators 76 extends across the associatedcontrol link 74. In FIG. 19b , the loader arms 16 are disposed in araised position. In this raised position, the rear links 72 continue tobe disposed in a substantially vertical orientation (although the upperends of the rear links 72 are shifted at least slightly forward alongthe track assemblies 78), the control links 74 are disposed at asubstantially vertical orientation, and the actuators 76 are disposed atan angle therebetween. FIG. 19a illustrate the loader arms 16 positionedintermediate the lowered and raised positions. In such a position, therear links 72, the control links 74, and the actuators 76 are generallypositioned in intermediate orientations between those described above inFIGS. 17b (loader arms 16 in the lowered positions) and 19 b (loaderarms 16 in the raised positions). It should also be noted that theactuators 76 continue to extend across their associated control link 74.

As was discussed previously, the manner in which the loader arms 16 areattached to the frame 12 provides for the loader arms 16 to actuate in avertical-lift configuration. In more detail, the rear links 72 and thecontrol links 74 support the loader arms 16 with respect to the frame 12and provide for the loader arms 16 to raise and lower in a vertical-liftconfiguration when actuated by the actuator 76. In some embodiments, theactuators 76 may comprise linear actuators, such as hydraulic cylinders(e.g., single or double-acting cylinders), pneumatic cylinders, and/oror electronic linear actuators. However, as discussed in more detailbelow, the loader arms 16 may be actuated by various other types ofactuators. The rear and control links 72, 74 may comprise generallyrigid elements that support the loader arms 16 with respect to the frame12 as the loader arms 16 are raised and lowered.

Although the loader arms 16 are configured to operate in a vertical-liftconfiguration, the track assemblies 78 permit the loader arms 16 to bemaintained directly attached to the frame 12 during operation. As such,the loader arms 16 may be directly attached to the frame 14 at the trackassemblies 78, while being indirectly attached to the frame 12 via therear links 72, the control links 74, and the actuators 76.

With reference to FIG. 18 In some embodiments, each of the trackassemblies 78 may be in the form of a running track that broadlycomprises a track body 80 that includes an elongated, arcuate frame orborder presenting an opening or recess within the frame/border of thetrack body 80. As such, the opening or recess may likewise have anelongated, arcuate shape. The loader arms 16 may each be engaged withand/or attached to one of the track bodies 80 such that a portion of theloader arm 16 may travel along (e.g., slide forward/rearward and/orupward/downward) the opening presented by the track assembly 78.Specifically, the openings of the track assemblies 78 may act as guidepaths along which at least a portion of the loader arms 16 areconfigured to translate. The track assemblies 78 are configured toprevent or reduce torsion of the loader arms 16 by preventing movementof the loader arms 16 beyond the track assemblies 78. For example, thetrack assemblies 78 may counter or otherwise resist lateral or torsionalmovement of the loader arms 16 so as to keep the loader arms 16 inproper alignment with the frame 12 of the loader 10 during movement(e.g., raising/lowering) of the loader arms 16.

With reference to FIG. 18, the track body 80 of each of the trackassemblies 78 may be integrally formed within (or monolithic with) theupper portion 46 (e.g., the upper panels 30(a), 32(a)) of the frame 12.For example, the track body 80 is formed by stamping or embossing themetal of the frame 12 to form the track body 80. In alternativeembodiments, the track body 80 may be secured (e.g., via weld) to theupper portion 46 (e.g., the upper panels 30(a), 32(a)) of the frame 12.Regardless, as noted above, the track body 80 presents an opening so asto form a running track. When the track body 80 is integrally formedwith the frame 12, the opening may extend through a thickness of theframe 12. Remaining with FIG. 18, the track assemblies 78 may eachcomprise a pin 82 that is associated with (e.g., extends through) arespective loader arm 16 and/or rear link 72. In some embodiments, thepins 82 may be integrally formed with the loader arms 16. In moredetail, each of the pins 82 may extend through a rear or proximal end ofone of the loader arms 16 and into engagement with the track body 80such that the pin 82 extends at least partially within the openingpresented by the track body 80. In some embodiments, the pins 82 mayalso extend through the rear links 72. Regardless, each of the pins 82is configured to move along the opening presented by the track body 80.Specifically, the pins 82 follow the guide paths presented by the trackassemblies 78. As the loader arms 16 move from a lowered position (shownin FIGS. 17a and 17b ) to a raised position (shown in FIG. 19b ), thepins 82 shift between a rearward position of the track body 80, alongthe opening of the track body 80, and to a forward position of the trackbody 80. Correspondingly, the pins 82 may shift from the forwardposition to the rearward position while the loader arms 16 move from theraised position to the lowered position. As a result, the loader arms 16are slidably connected to the frame 12

To help facilitate movement of the pins 82 through the opening of thetrack body 80, and as perhaps best shown in FIGS. 17b , 18, and 19 b,each of the pins 82 may include (or otherwise be associated with) acaptive runner 84 configured to be received on an end of the pin 82,with such end being the end that is engaged with the track body 80. Thecaptive runners 84 may comprise ring-shaped bushings or bearings thatare secured to the pins 82 in a manner that permits the captive runners84 to rotate with respect to the pins 84. Furthermore, however, thecaptive runners 84 will each include two annular protrusions and anannular recess groove extending around a circumference of the captiverunner 84, such that the captive runners 84 (and thus the pins 82) areheld within the opening of the track body 80 via engagement between theannular recess and a track wall presented as an interior edge of thetrack body 80 that surrounds the opening. Such engagement may permit thecaptive runners 84 to rotate or roll along the track body 80 so as toreduce friction as the pins 82 move forward and rearward through theopening of the track body 80 (i.e., as the loader arms 16 are raisedand/or lowered).

As shown in FIG. 17, One or more of the forward and rearward ends of theopening presented by each of the track bodies 80 may be formed with anaccess ports 86 that permits the captive runner 84 and/or the pins 82 tobe inserted into and removed from engagement with the track assembly 78.The access ports 86 may have a larger open area than remaining portionsof the opening of the track body 80, so as to allow the captive runner84 and/or the pin 82 to pass therethrough. Such larger open area may beformed by reducing a width of the track wall 86 near the forward andrearward ends of the track body 80. The ability to remove the pins 82and/or captive runners 84 from the track body 80 permits the loader arms16 to be disengaged from the track assemblies 78 for purposes of serviceand maintenance, as may become necessary. It should be noted however,that during normal operations of the loader 10 (e.g., during raising andlowering of the loader arms 16), the pins 82 and/or captive runners 84will not become aligned with the access ports 80, such that the loaderarms 16 will not become inadvertently disengaged with the trackassemblies 78

Finally, the track assemblies 78 may each be associated with a handguard 88 that is rotatably attached to the frame 12 of the loader 10directly above the track bodies 80. The hand guards 88 may cover theremaining components of the track assemblies 80 so as to protect theoperator from inadvertently placing his/her body parts (e.g., hands),clothing, etc. into engagement with the track assemblies 78 which couldcause damage or injury to the operator. Nevertheless, because the handguards 88 are rotatably attached to the frame 12 (e.g., via pivot pins),the hand guards 88 can be rotated upward away from the remainingcomponents of the track assemblies 78 when necessary to access suchcomponents of the track assemblies 78.

In view of the above, each of the track assemblies 78 presents anarcuate path that is configured to keep the captive runner 84 and thepins 82 (and by extension, the loader arms 16) stable vertically (e.g.,upward and downward), laterally (e.g., into and away from the frame), ina roll direction (e.g., the pins 82 are restricted from moving upwardand downward beyond the opening presented by the track body 80), and ina yaw direction (e.g., the pins 82 are restricted from moving forwardand rearward beyond the opening presented by the track body 80). Stateddifferently, the track assemblies 78 prevent the loader arms 16 frommoving vertically, laterally, in a roll direction, and in a yawdirection with respect to the track assemblies 78. The arcuate path ofthe track assembly 78 allows movement only along and aligned with theguide path presented by the opening of the track body 80. Thus, thetrack assemblies 78 allow the loader arms 16 to actuate in avertical-lift configuration while being directly attached to the frame12 of the loader 10.

In some further embodiments, the pins 82 of the track assemblies 78 maynot be necessary to directly attach the loader arms 16 to the frame 12and to still allow the loader arms 16 to operate in a vertical liftconfiguration. For example, the loader arms 16 may each be directlyattached to the frame via a track assembly 78 that comprises a trackbody 80 and a captive runner 84 in the form of a track roller bearingconfigured to translate (e.g., slide) through the opening presented bythe track body 80 as the loader arm 16 is raised and lowered. In suchembodiments, each of the captive runners 84 may be directly attached toa respective loader arm 16 and track body 80. Thus, as the loader arms16 are raised and lowered, the captive runner 84 translates along thetrack body 80, while maintaining a direct connection between the loaderarms 16 and the frame 12. Additionally, in such embodiments, either therear links 72 or the control links 74 may be removed. Thus, theactuators 76 and either the rear links 72 or the control links 74indirectly attach the loader arms 16 to the frame 12, while the trackassemblies 78 (without the pins 82 but including captive runners 84 inthe form of a track roller bearings) directly attach the loader arms tothe frame 12. As such, the loader arms 16 will be raised and lowered ina vertical lift configuration by the force of the actuators 76, whilethe track assemblies 78 (including captive runners 84 in the form of atrack roller bearings) maintain a direct connection between the loaderarms 16 and the frame 12.

Alternative Vertical Lift Embodiments

Embodiments of the present invention additionally include compactutility loaders with alternate types of loader arms having avertical-lift configuration. The below embodiments generally include aframe and one or more loader arms similar to those discussed above withrespect to the loader 10. For instance, the loader arms support anattachment, such as a bucket or hydraulically operated tool. An operatormay raise and lower the loader arms (including the bucket or other tool)so as to perform any of various tasks.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, embodiments of the presentinvention include another style compact utility loader 100 with a pairof loader arms 102 having a vertical-lift configuration. In thisembodiment, each loader arm 102 of the loader 100 is associated with arear link 104 and a control link 106 similar to the rear link 72 and thecontrol link 74 discussed above with respect to loader 10. Differently,however, each loader arm 102 of the loader 100 is secured to the rearlink 104 via a rotary actuator 108, such that the rotary actuator 108 isdisposed between the rear link 104 and the loader arm 102. The rotaryactuator 108 is configured to rotate the loader arm 102 and/or the rearlink 104 so as to change a relative angle between the loader arm 102 andthe rear link 104. Changing the relative angle between the loader arm102 and the rear link 104 permits the loader arm 104 to shift between alowered position and a raised position in a vertical-lift manner.Although the figures only illustrate one side of the loader 100 (i.e.,the left side), it should be understood that the opposite side of theloader 100 (i.e., the right side) similarly includes a loader arm 102, arear link 104, a control link 106, and an actuator 108 that mirror thoseshown in FIGS. 20 and 21.

In some embodiments, the rotary actuator 108 may be secured to theloader arm 102 and the rear link 104. In other embodiments, however, therotary actuator 108 may be secured to the control link 106 and theloader arm 102. Nevertheless, in either embodiment, the rotary actuator108 may be permanently secured to the loader arm 102 or the respectivelink 104, 106, imparting rotation on the other component, so as to causethe loader arm 102 to raise and lower.

The rotary actuator 108 produces a rotary motion. The rotary motionallows the operator to selectively raise and lower the loader arm 102relative to the frame of the loader 100. In some embodiments, the rotaryactuator 108 may be powered via hydraulic, pneumatic, or electricalpower. In some of these embodiments, the rotary actuator 108 may be alinear piston-and-cylinder assembly that is stepped so as to producerotation. In other of these embodiments, the rotary actuator 108 may bea rotating asymmetrical vane which swings through a cylinder of twodifferent radii. The pressure differential between the two sides of thevane produces an unbalanced force which imparts a torque on an outputshaft. In still other embodiments, the rotary actuator 108 is anelectrically powered motor.

In some embodiments, the rotary actuator 108 may raise and lower theloader arm 102 (and associated attachment) while the rotary actuator 108positioned further from the ground than on loaders with traditionalvertical lift configurations. In these traditional configurations, anactuator may be susceptible to dirt and other contaminants due to theactuator's relatively low position. The rotary actuator 108 beingdisposed relatively high on the frame of the loader 100, and havingfewer exposed moving parts, may thus reduce the likelihood ofcontaminants affecting the actuator 108.

In a second alternate embodiment of a compact utility loader 120, shownin FIGS. 22 and 23, with a pair of loader arms 122 having avertical-lift configuration. In this embodiment, each loader arm 122 ofthe loader 120 is associated with a rear link 124 and a control link 126similar to the rear link 72 and the control link 74 discussed above withrespect to loader 10. Differently, however, the loader 120 includes alinear actuator 128 associated with each loader arm 122, with eachlinear actuator 128 pivotably secured to one of the control links 126and to the frame of the loader 120 for raising and lowering the loaderarms 122. In more detail, the linear actuators 128 may each comprise ahydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or an electric actuator thatis rotatably secured to a side of the frame 12 (e.g., a left side 30 ora right side 32) and pivotably secured to the control link 126 of theloader 120. As such, a rotational force is produced via lineartelescoping action of the linear actuator 128 onto the control link 126.In this embodiment, each of the control links 126 may be pivotablysecured to the frame 12 (at a fulcrum positioned between the linearactuator 128 and the loader arm 122) and pivotably secured to the loaderarm 122. Although the figures only illustrate one side of the loader 120(i.e., the left side), it should be understood that the opposite side ofthe loader 120 (i.e., the right side) similarly includes a loader arm122, a rear link 124, a control link 126, and an actuator 128 thatmirror those shown in FIGS. 22 and 23.

In more detail, embodiments provide for each of the control links 126 inthis embodiment to function as a lever. As illustrated, the lever maypresent a general L-shape with a center portion of the control link 126being a fulcrum that is rotatably connected to a side of the frame ofthe loader 120. A first side of the control link 126 extends from thefulcrum to the linear actuator 128, while a second side of the controllink 126 extends from the fulcrum to the loader arm 122. The first sideand the second side of the control link 126 extend at an angle withrespect to each other so as to present the L-shape. In some embodiments,the first side and the second side of the control link 126 may extend atan angle of about ninety degrees, although various other angles may beimplemented. The lengths of the first and second section of the controllink 126 may be selected, as necessary, to provide a preferablemechanical advantage for the lever (e.g., such lengths may be selectedso as to reduce the force input from the actuator 128 necessary to causedisplacement and/or rotation of the control link 126 and, thus, theloader arms 122).

In some embodiments, the first side of the control link 126 will bepositioned in a vertical orientation (e.g., downward orientation) whenthe loader arms 122 are in the lowered position. Correspondingly, thesecond side of the control link 126 will be positioned in generally ahorizontal orientation (and connected to the loader arm 122). As such,when the linear actuator 128 is extended and retracted, the first sideof the control link 126 is shifted forward or rearward relative to thefulcrum. Correspondingly, the second side of the control link 126 (whichis connected to the loader arms 122) will be raised and lowered. In thisway, actuation of the control links 126 by the linear actuators 128 willshift the loader arms 122 relative to the frame of the loader 120.Specifically, the linear actuators 128 are configured to raise theloader arms 122 from a lowered position to a raised position bymanipulating the control links 126 in a first direction, as well asbeing configured to lower the loader arms 122 from the raised positionto the lowered position by manipulating the control links 126 in asecond direction.

In a third alternate embodiment of a compact utility loader 130, asshown in FIGS. 24 and 25, with a pair of loader arms 132 having avertical-lift configuration. In this embodiment, each loader arm 132 ofthe loader 130 is associated with a rear link 134 and a control link 136similar to the rear link 72 and the control link 74 discussed above withrespect to loader 10. Differently, however, the loader 130 includes alinear actuator 138 associated with each loader arm 132, with eachlinear actuator 138 pivotably secured to one of the rear links 134 andto the frame of the loader 130 for raising and lowering the loader arms132. In more detail, the linear actuators 138 may each comprise ahydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or an electrical actuator thatis rotatably secured to a side of the frame 12 (e.g., a left side 30 ora right side 32) and pivotably secured to the rear link 134 of theloader 130. As such, a rotational force is produced via lineartelescoping action of the linear actuator 138 onto the rear link 134. Inthis embodiment, each of the rear links 134 may be pivotably secured tothe frame 12 (at a position between the connection points of linearactuator 138 and the loader arm 132) and pivotably secured to the loaderarm 122. Although the figures only illustrate one side of the loader 130(i.e., the left side), it should be understood that the opposite side ofthe loader 130 (i.e., the right side) similarly includes a loader arm132, a rear link 134, a control link 136, and an actuator 138 thatmirror those shown in FIGS. 24 and 25.

In more detail, embodiments provide for the rear link 134 to function asa lever. As illustrated, the lever may present a general I-shape with acenter portion of the rear link 134 being a fulcrum that is rotatablyconnected to a side of the frame of the loader 130. A first side of therear link 134 extends (e.g., downward) from the fulcrum to the linearactuator 138, while a second side of the rear link 134 extends (e.g.,upward) from the fulcrum o the loader arm 132. The first side and thesecond side of the rear link 134 may extend generally colinearly so asto present the I-shape. The lengths of the first and second section ofthe rear link 134 may be selected, as necessary, to provide a preferablemechanical advantage for the lever (e.g., such lengths may be selectedso as to reduce the force input from the actuator 138 necessary to causedisplacement and/or rotation of the control link 134 and, thus, theloader arms 132).

In some embodiments, the rear links 134 will be positioned in agenerally vertical orientation when the loader arms 132 are in thelowered position. As such, when the linear actuator 138 is extended andretracted, the first side of the rear link 134 (e.g., a lower side) isshifted forward or rearward relative to the fulcrum. Correspondingly,the second side of the rear link 134 (e.g., an upper side which isconnected to the loader arm 132) will be shifted rearward or forwardrelative to the fulcrum. As a result, the loader arms 132 can be raisedand lowered. More particularly, actuation of the rear links 134 by thelinear actuators 138 will shift the loader arms 132 relative to theframe of the loader 130. The linear actuators 138 are configured toraise the loader arms 132 from a lowered position to a raised positionby manipulating the rear links 134 in a first direction, as well asbeing configured to lower the loader arms 132 from the raised positionto the lowered position by manipulating the rear links 134 in a seconddirection.

In other embodiments, not illustrated, the loaders 100, 120, 130, mayinclude actuators operably attached to both the rear link and thecontrol link. Regardless, as illustrated above with respect to theloaders 100, 120, and 130, embodiments of the present invention providevarious configurations for creating a vertical-lift configured loaderarm. In the above-described embodiments, however, the actuators used toraise and lower the loader arms (e.g., rotary actuator 108 or linearactuators 128, 138) are not simultaneously secured to both the frame andthe loader arms. For instance, for loader 100, the rotary actuator 108is attached directly to the loader arm 102 but is not attached to theframe. In some other embodiments, however, the rotary actuator 108 mightbe directly attached to the frame of the loader 100. For loaders 120,130, on the other hand, the linear actuators 128, 138 are directlyattached to the frame, but not directly attached to the loader arm 122,132.

Control System

As described previously, and as perhaps best illustrated in FIGS. 26 and27, the loader 10 may include control station 20 positioned at the rearof the loader 10. The control station 20 may include a platform 140 onwhich the operator can stand when operating the loader. Generally, theplatform 140 will be secured to a lower portion of the frame 12 of theloader 10, such that the operator can comfortably reach the controlpanel 22 with the operator's hands. In some embodiments, the loader 10may include a presence sensor 141 associated with the platform 140 andconfigured to determine if the platform 140 is currently supporting anoperator (i.e., whether an operator is currently present on the platform140). Such a presence sensor 141 may comprise an electronic positionsensor, such an inductive proximity switch configured to be triggered bythe weight of the operator present on the platform 140. Thus, the loader10 is configured to determine whether or not an operator is positionedon the platform 140. As will be discussed in more detail below, in someembodiments, certain operational features of the loader 10 may berestricted if an operator is not present on the platform 140.

The control panel 22 illustrated in FIGS. 26 and 27 may be part of anenhanced user interface and control system (“UICS”) 142 that includesthe control panel 22 and a plurality of control elements, such asbuttons, switches, levers, joysticks, graphical display, etc., whichcollectively permit the operator to control operation of the loader 10.In more detail, the UICS 142 of the loader 10 may comprise a graphicdisplay 144, one or more control elements 145 (e.g., buttons, switches,etc.), an engine speed lever 146, as well as one or more joystickcontrols 148. As noted above, the U ICS 142 is positioned at a rear ofthe loader 10, such that an operator can stand at the rear of the loader10 to operate the loader 10. Although the operator will normally standon the platform 140 when operating the loader 10, in some embodiments,the loader 10 may be configured such that the operator can stand on theground behind the loader 10 and reach the UICS 142 to control operationof the loader 10.

Beginning with the joystick controls 148, and with reference to FIG. 27,the UICS 142 may include a drive joystick 148(a), which is configured tocontrol actuation of the tracks 40 (e.g., via the hydraulic motors 50and the sprockets 44) for controlling overall movement (e.g., travel ordrive movement) of the loader 10. In more detail, the drive joystick148(a) may extend upward from the control panel 22, such that anoperator may grasp and shift the drive joystick 148(a) so as to cause acorresponding movement of the loader 10. In more detail, as illustratedin FIG. 28, a pilot control valve assembly 150(a) may be secured to abottom of the drive joystick 148(a). In general, the pilot control valveassembly 150(a) may be positioned below the control panel 22. The pilotcontrol valve assemblies 150(a) and (b) are generally configured todistribute hydraulic fluid to other components of the loader's 10hydraulic system based on inputs received on the joysticks 148(a) and(b). As such, hydraulic lines may extend from the pilot control valveassembly 150(a) to the hydraulic pump 54 (which provides hydraulic powerto the hydraulic motors 50, such as perhaps via the hydrostatictransmission of the pump 54) such that actuation of the drive joystick148(a) will manipulate the pilot control valve assembly 150(a) in amanner that causes a required function of the hydraulic motors 50 tocause actuation of the sprockets 44 and tracks 40, as well as overallmovement of the loader 10.

For example, shifting the drive joystick 148(a) forward will cause thepilot control valve assembly 150(a) to provide a control signal (via thehydraulic lines) to the hydraulic pump 54 (and/or the hydrostatictransmission of the pump 54) to provide hydraulic fluid to each of theleft side and right side hydraulic motors 50 in a manner that will causethe left side and right side sprockets 44 to rotate in a manner thatcorrespondingly causes the left side and right side tracks 40 to rotatein a forward direction. As a result, the loader 10 will move forward.The amount by which the operator shifts the drive joystick 148(a)forward may determine the speed by which the loader 10 travels in theforward direction. Similarly, shifting the drive joystick 148(a)rearward will cause the pilot control valve assembly 150(a) to provide acontrol signal (via the hydraulic lines) to the hydraulic pump 54(and/or the hydrostatic transmission of the pump 54) to providehydraulic fluid to each of the left side and right side hydraulic motors50 in a manner that will cause the left side and right side sprockets 44to rotate in a manner that correspondingly causes the left side andright side tracks 40 to rotate in a rearward direction. As a result, theloader 10 will move rearward. The amount by which the operator shiftsthe drive joystick 148(a) rearward may determine the speed by which theloader 10 travels in the rearward direction. Rotating the drive joystick148(a) clockwise (when viewing from above the control panel 22) willcause the pilot control valve assembly 150(a) to provide (i) a controlsignal (via the hydraulic lines) to the hydraulic pump 54 (and/or thehydrostatic transmission of the pump 54) so as to provide hydraulicfluid to the left side hydraulic motor 50 to rotate the left sidesprocket 44 in a manner to cause the left side track 40 to rotate in aforward direction, and (ii) a control signal (via the hydraulic lines)to the hydraulic pump 54 (and/or the hydrostatic transmission of thepump 54) so as to provide hydraulic fluid to the right side hydraulicmotor 50 to rotate the right side sprocket 44 in a manner to cause theright side track 40 to rotate in a rearward direction. As such, theloader 10 will turn in a rightward direction. The amount by which theoperator rotates the drive joystick 148(a) clockwise may determine thespeed or degree by which the loader 10 turns rightward. Similarly,rotating the drive joystick 148(a) counter-clockwise (when viewing fromabove the control panel 22) will cause the pilot control valve assembly150(a) to provide (i) a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump 54 (and/or the hydrostatic transmission of the pump 54)so as to provide hydraulic fluid to the left side hydraulic motor 50 torotate the left side sprocket 44 in a manner to cause the left sidetrack 40 to rotate in a rearward direction, and (ii) a control signal(via the hydraulic lines) to the hydraulic pump 54 (and/or thehydrostatic transmission of the pump 54) so as to provide hydraulicfluid to the right side hydraulic motor 50 to rotate the right sidesprocket 44 in a manner to cause the right side track 40 to rotate in aforward direction. As such, the loader 10 turns in a leftward direction.The amount by which the operator rotates the drive joystick 148(a)counter-clockwise may determine the speed or degree by which the loader10 turns leftward.

The UICS 142 may additionally include a loader arm & attachment (“LA&A”)joystick 148(b) for controlling actuation of the loader arms 16 (e.g.,raising and lowering) and various hydraulically-operated functions ofthe attachment 18 that may be supported on the front of the loader arms16. For example, the hydraulically-operated functions may include a tiltfunction for buckets (e.g., as caused by a tilt actuator, such as thehydraulic tilt cylinder 151 illustrated in FIG. 14) or auxiliaryhydraulic functions for other hydraulically-operated attachments 18 suchas, e.g., bit rotation of a drill, bit actuation of a jack-hammer,rotation of a blade for a saw, rotation of multiple blades for a rotarycutter, brush rotation of a sweeper, etc. In more detail, as shown inFIGS. 26 and 27, the LA&A joystick 148(b) may extend upward from thecontrol panel 22, such that an operator may grasp and shift the LA&Ajoystick 148(b) so as to cause a corresponding movement of the loaderarms 16 and/or the associated attachment 18. As illustrated in FIG. 28,a pilot control valve assembly 150(b) may be secured to a bottom of theLA&A joystick 148(b). In general, the pilot control valve assembly150(b) may be positioned below the control panel 22. Hydraulic lines mayextend from the pilot control valve assembly 150(b) to the hydraulicpump 54 which provides hydraulic power to the actuators 76 (e.g.,hydraulic cylinders) associated with each of the loader arms 16, suchthat actuation of the LA&A joystick 148(b) will manipulate the pilotcontrol valve assembly 150(b) in a manner that causes a correspondingraising/lowering of the loader arms 16. For example, shifting the LA&Ajoystick 148(b) forward will cause the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump 54 so as to provide hydraulic fluid to/from each of theleft side and right side actuators 76 in a manner that will cause theleft side and right side loader arms 16 to lower. Similarly, shiftingthe LA&A joystick 148(b) rearward will cause the pilot control valveassembly 150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) tothe hydraulic pump 54 so as to provide hydraulic fluid to/from each ofthe left side and right side actuators 76 in a manner that will causethe left side and right side loader arms 16 to raise.

In addition, the LA&A joystick 148(b) may include one or more controlelements (e.g., buttons or switches) to facilitate control of thevarious hydraulic functionalities of the attachments 18 supported on theforward end of the loader arms 16. For example, as show in FIG. 26, theLA&A joystick 148(b) may include a float button 152(a) configured topermit the loader arms 16 (or the hitch pins 68 or the attachment 18attached to the front of the loader arms 16) to float along undulatingground terrain. Selection of the float button 152(a) by the operator,will send a signal to open a float control valve that provides a pathfor fluid in the loader arms to vent to the loader's 10 hydraulic tankin a manner that will cause the left side and right side loader arms 16(or the hitch pins 68 or the attachment 18 attached to the front of theloader arms 16) to remain at a specified height above the groundregardless of whether the ground is uneven, undulating, etc. As aresult, the attachment 18 (or the hitch pins 68 or the attachment 18attached to the front of the loader arms 16) being supported by theloader arms 16 will “float” above and/or within the ground duringoperation and/or movement of the loader 10. Stated differently, theloader arms 16, the associated attachment 18, and/or the hitch pins 68will follow the contour of the ground over which the loader 10 istravelling. If the loader arms 16 are in the raised position and thefloat button 152(a) is selected, the loader arms 16 will lower until theloader arms 16 (and the attachment associated therewith) are positionedat the specified height and/or are floating along the contour of theground, where they will remain during operation of the loader 10 untilthe operator further shifts the LA&A 148(b) joystick to change theheight of the loader arms 16. Specifically, once the loader arms 16 areprovided in the float configuration, the loader arms 16 will remain insuch float configuration until the float button 152(a) is selected for asecond, consecutive time or until the loader arms 16 are raised by theoperator shifting the LA&A 148(b) joystick (e.g., shifting the LA&A148(b) joystick in a rearward direction).

The LA&A joystick 148(b) can further include one or more auxiliarybuttons 152(b) for activating the auxiliary hydraulic functions of theattachment (if applicable) associated with the loader 10. In someembodiments, the LA&A joystick 148(b) will include two auxiliary buttons152(b), as illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 13. In some embodiments, theauxiliary buttons 152(b) will be configured to activate the hydraulicfunctions of the attachment 18 in either an “On-Demand” mode or a“Continuous” mode. When in the On-Demand mode, selection (e.g.,depressing) of one of the auxiliary buttons 152(b) will cause thehydraulic auxiliary functions of the attachment 18 to operate. Releasingthe same auxiliary button 152(b) will cause the hydraulic auxiliaryfunctions of the attachment 18 to halt operation. In embodiments inwhich the attachment 18 is a bucket, the selection (e.g., depressing) ofone of the auxiliary buttons 152(b) may cause the bucket to tiltdownward (via actuation of the tilt actuator 151), while selection(e.g., depressing) of the other auxiliary button 152(b) operate maycause the bucket to tilt upward (via actuation of the tilt actuator151). In contrast, in other embodiments, the auxiliary buttons 152(b)may be configured in a “Continuous” mode, whereby the hydraulicauxiliary functions of the attachment 18 begin operating upon selectionof (e.g., depressing) one of the auxiliary buttons 152(b) and continuefunctioning until the operator selects (e.g., depresses) the sameauxiliary button 152(b) a second, consecutive time.

In more detail, when in the On-Demand mode, selection of a firstauxiliary button 152(b) may cause the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump 54 so as to provide hydraulic fluid to the attachment 18flowing in a first flow direction such that the hydraulic auxiliaryfunctions of the attachment 18 are operated in a first direction (e.g.,forward, clockwise, etc.). When the operator releases the firstauxiliary button 152(b), the pilot control valve assembly 150(b) willprovide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to the hydraulic pump54 to stop providing hydraulic fluid to the attachment 18 such that thehydraulic auxiliary functions of the attachment 18 are halted.Correspondingly, when in the On-Demand mode, selection of a secondauxiliary button 152(b) may cause the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump 54 so as to provide hydraulic fluid to flow to theattachment 18 in a second flow direction such that the hydraulicfunctions of the attachment are operated in a second, opposite direction(e.g., reverse, counter-clockwise, etc.). When the operator releases thesecond auxiliary button 152(b), the pilot control valve assembly 150(b)will provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to the hydraulicpump 54 to stop providing hydraulic fluid to the attachment 18 such thatthe hydraulic auxiliary functions of the attachment 18 are halted.

As was described above, when in the Continuous mode, selection of thefirst auxiliary button 152(b) may cause the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump 54 so as to provide hydraulic fluid to the attachment 18flowing in a first flow direction such that the hydraulic auxiliaryfunctions of the attachment 18 are operated in the first direction(e.g., forward, clockwise, etc.). The hydraulic fluid will continueflowing to the attachment 18 in the first direction, such that theattachment 18 continues operating in the first direction until theoperator selects the first auxiliary button 152(b) for a subsequent,second time. As a result, the pilot control valve assembly 150(b) willprovide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to the hydraulic pump54 to stop providing hydraulic fluid to the attachment 18 such that thehydraulic auxiliary functions of the attachment 18 are halted.Correspondingly, when in the Continuous mode, selection of the secondauxiliary button 152(b) may cause the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump 54 so as to provide hydraulic fluid to flow to theattachment 18 in the second flow direction such that the hydraulicfunctions of the attachment are operated in the second, oppositedirection (e.g., reverse, counter-clockwise, etc.). The hydraulic fluidwill continue flowing to the attachment 18 in the second direction, suchthat the attachment 18 continues operating in the second direction untilthe operator selects the second auxiliary button 152(b) for asubsequent, second time. As a result, the pilot control valve assembly150(b) will provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump 54 to stop providing hydraulic fluid to the attachment 18such that the hydraulic auxiliary functions of the attachment 18 arehalted.

In some embodiments, the UICS 142 may permit the operator to change thefunctionality of the auxiliary buttons 152(b) between the On-Demand modeand the Continuous mode via the graphic display 144 and/or theassociated control elements 145, as will described in more detail below.

In some embodiments, the loader 10 may include proportional valvesassociated with each of the auxiliary buttons 152(b). Such proportionalvalves may be included within the pilot control valve assembly 150(b) orthey may be included in the LA&A joystick 148(b) or a separate hydrauliccontrol component. The proportional valves are configured to providehydraulic fluid to the attachment 18 in an amount proportional to themagnitude of the depression of the auxiliary buttons 152(b). It isunderstood that increasing the amount of hydraulic fluid to theattachment 18 will increase the operating capabilities (e.g., power orspeed) of the auxiliary functions being performed by the attachment 18.

For example, it may not be preferable to provide a maximum amount ofhydraulic fluid to the attachment 18 upon any magnitude of depression ofthe auxiliary buttons 152(b). As such, the use of proportional valvesmay allow the amount of hydraulic fluid to the attachment 18 to vary(e.g., linearly) based on the magnitude of the depression. The ratio ofthe magnitude of depression of the auxiliary buttons 152(b) and theamount of hydraulic fluid provided to the attachment 18 may be definedby a scaling factor. In some embodiments, the UICS 142 may permit theoperator to change the scaling factor, as necessary. Furthermore, insome embodiments, each of the auxiliary buttons 152(b) may have adeadband depression level, whereby depressing the auxiliary buttons152(b) beyond the deadband depression level cause the pilot controlvalve assembly 150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydrauliclines) to the hydraulic pump 54 to stop providing hydraulic fluid to theattachment 18 such that the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment 18 are halted For example, in some embodiments, the deadbanddepression level can be set at 70% of the maximum depression level. Assuch, depressing one or both the auxiliary buttons 152(b) more than 70%will halt the hydraulic auxiliary functions of the attachment 18.However, depressing the auxiliary buttons 152(b) between 0 and 70% willcause the attachments 18 to operate at between 0 and 100% of the maximumoperating capabilities of the attachment 18 depending on the scalingfactor set by the operator. In some additional embodiments, when in theContinuous mode, the auxiliary buttons 152(b) will need to be depressedat least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, orat least 50% before the hydraulic auxiliary function of the attachment18 is initiated.

Fuming to the graphic display 144 of the UICS 142 in more detail, thegraphic display 144 may comprise an electronic display, such as acathode ray tube, liquid crystal display, plasma, or touch screen thatis operable to display visual graphics, images, text, etc. In someembodiments, the graphic display 144 may be configured to displaycolored information. In certain embodiments, the loader 10 may include acontrol system that controls the UICS 142 (including the graphic display144) and various other functions and features of the loader 10. Thecontrol system may include one or more memory elements, such asnon-transitory computer readable media and/or firmware, with a computerprogram stored thereon. The control system may also include one or moreprocessing elements, such as processors, CPUs, FPGAs, etc., which areconfigured to execute the computer program to perform various functionsand features of the loader 10. It should be understood that certain ofthe loader's 10 functions and features discussed above and below areperformed by execution of the computer program by the processingelements.

For example, the control system may be configured to (by the processingelements executing the computer program stored on the memory elements)(i) obtain information from various components of the loader 10 (e.g.,via sensors, actuators, timers, clocks, etc.) so as to present suchinformation to the operator via the graphic display 144, and (ii)receive instructions from the operator (e.g., via the graphic display144, the control elements 145, the engine speed lever 146, and/or thejoysticks 148) to control various operations of the loader 10. Forexample, the control system may permit the graphic display 144 topresent various graphical user interfaces (GUIs) that providesinformation to the operator and/or that facilitate interaction andcontrol of the loader 10 by the operator. In embodiments in which thegraphic display 144 is a touchscreen, the GUIs enable the operator tointeract with the loader 10 by touching or pointing at display areas ofthe GUI. In some other embodiments, the operator will interact with theGUIs and/or the loader by manipulating the control elements 145 that areassociated with the graphic display 144.

FIGS. 29-32 present various GUIs, which embodiments allow to bedisplayed via the graphic display 144, and which provide information tothe operator and/or that allow the operator to control various functionsof the loader 10. Such GUIs enhance the operator's control of the loader10. For example, as shown in FIG. 29, the graphic display 144 of theUICS 142 may present a Login Screen, which prompts the operator for apasscode before the loader 10 can be started or operated. The LoginScreen may be activated upon a master switch 154 (See FIGS. 26 and 27)of the UICS 142 being activated. Such activation of the master switch154 may provide for electrical power to be supplied from an electricalpower source (e.g., a 12 Volt battery) of the loader 10 to the graphicdisplay 144 (and to various other components of the loader 10, such asthe control system). It should be noted that the master switch 154 maybe deactivated so as to electrically disconnect the various componentsof the loader 10 from the electrical power source. In some embodiments,deactivation of the master switch 154 may also turn off the engine 52(if the engine is on). In some embodiments, the loader 10 may include apower time-out, whereby if the master switch 154 is activated but theengine is not started within a pre-established timeframe (e.g., 30minutes) from the master switch 154 activation, the master switch 154 isautomatically deactivated. Both engine 52 shutdown and the switch turnedon resets the power time-out timer.

Returning to the Login Screen, the operator is prompted to enter apasscode, which must be validated before operating the loader 10. Thepasscode may be a numeric, alphabetic, and/or alphanumeric code, such as4 or 6-digit code. Such a passcode may be entered via the associatedcontrol elements 145 (See FIGS. 26 and 27) or directly via the graphicdisplay 144 in embodiments in which the graphic display 144 is atouchscreen. Embodiments provide for the loader 10 to be associated withone or more passcodes associated with various types of user accounts(e.g., operator accounts, owner account, and master account). Forexample, each loader 10 may include a plurality of operator accounts,which can each be created for an individual operator that may requireuse of the loader 10 for normal operations. Each operator may beassigned his/her own unique passcode to access his/her operator account.In addition, the owner of the loader 10 (which may be a business entity)may have an owner account which can manage each of the operatoraccounts. The owner account may have its own passcode with which toaccess various functions and features of the loader 10. For example, anowner may use the owner account to establish, recover, change, or deleteeach of the operator accounts and associated passcodes (i.e., operatoraccounts may not be permitted to create, re-set, or recover their ownpasscodes). In addition, some other specific functions and features ofthe loader 10 may only be accessed and changed via the owner account.Such specific functions and features may include the resetting ofservice/maintenance reminders and warning alerts, which are discussed inmore detail below. Furthermore, the loader 10 may be associated with amaster account, which may be used to recover the owner account passcode,if necessary. The master account may be established by the manufacturerof the loader 10. In some embodiments, the master account passcode maynot be changed. In some embodiments, when changing passcodes (e.g., whenthe owner account is used to change the passcode for an operatoraccount), embodiments may provide for the new passcode to be randomlygenerated.

In some embodiments, the Login Screen may also present other relevantinformation of the loader 10, such as current number of engine hoursoperated by the loader 10, current fuel level, etc. Before successfulentry of a passcode, various functions and features of the loader 10 maybe disabled. However, successful entry of the passcode (e.g., at theLogin Screen) may unlock one or more additional functions and featuresof the UICS 142, or of the loader 10 more generally. For example, asshown in FIG. 30, successful entry of the passcode may allow the graphicdisplay 144 to present a GUI in the form of an Operations Screen thatpresents various operational information of the loader 10 to theoperator. The Operations Screen may also present indications ofavailable functions of the loader 10 that the operator may carry out.Such available functions indicated on the Operations Screen may beselected via associated control elements 145 or through the graphicdisplay 144 itself (e.g., via touchscreen). For example, the operatormay be able to start the engine 52 of the loader 10 by actuating acontrol element 145 associated with a START icon 156 of the OperationsScreen. In some embodiments, upon successful entry of the operator'spasscode at the Login Screen, the loader 10 will activate the fuel pumpfor a pre-established timeframe (e.g., 1 minute), such that the operatorwill be required start the engine 52 within the pre-establishedtimeframe or the Login Screen will be re-displayed and the operator willbe required to successfully re-enter the passcode.

The Operations Screen may have multiple versions depending on the stateof the loader 10. For instance, the Operations Screen shown in FIG. 30may be presented after a successful entry of the operator's password butprior to the engine 52 of the loader 10 being started. As such, theSTART icon 156 is presented on the Operations Screen indicative of theoperator's ability to start the engine 52. The Operations Screen mayadditionally display a MENU icon 158, which when selected via theassociated control elements 145 or through the graphic display 144itself (e.g., touchscreen) will cause the graphic display 144 to displaya Menu Screen, which is discussed in more detail below. The OperationsScreen may additionally display a Work Light icon 160, which whenselected via the associated control elements 145 or through the graphicdisplay 144 itself (e.g., touchscreen) will cause the loader's 10 worklights to toggle on and off. When the work lights are on, the Work Lighticon 160 may be highlighted with a color (e.g., blue), whereas when thework lights are off, the Work Light icon 160 may not have a highlightedcolor (e.g., the Work Light icon 160 may be uncolored or colored gray).

Furthermore, the Operations Screen may additionally display a Glow Plugsicon 162, which when selected via the associated control elements 145 orthrough the graphic display 144 itself (e.g., touchscreen) will causethe loader's 10 glow plugs to toggle on and off. Such glow plugs may beused to pre-heat the engine 52 in preparation for starting the engine52. Activating the glow plugs (e.g., via the control elements 145 ortouchscreen) may activate the glow plugs for a pre-selected time period(e.g., 5 seconds). Re-activating the glow plugs (e.g., by re-selectingthe control elements 145 or touchscreen) may add another pre-selectedtime period (e.g., 5 seconds) to the glow plug activation. In someembodiments, the glow plugs may only be activated and/or re-activated(e.g., by selecting the control elements 145 or touchscreen) sixconsecutive times so as to limit the total active duration to a maximum“on-time time-limit.” For example, in embodiments in which thepre-selected time period is five seconds, the maximum on-time time-limitof the glow plugs will be thirty seconds (i.e., 5×6=30). However, insome embodiments, after the glow plug activation time has reached themaximum on-time time-limit, the operator may be able to reactivate theglow plugs if necessary. When the glow plugs are on, the Glow Plug icon162 may be highlighted with a color (e.g., green), whereas when the glowplugs are off, the Glow Plug icon 162 may not have a highlighted color(e.g., the Glow Plug icon 162 may uncolored or may be colored gray).

In addition to the above, and remaining with the Operations Screen ofFIG. 30, embodiments provide for the Operations Screen to display othertypes of information related to the loader 10. For example, theOperations Screen may display a Temperature Gauge configured to presentinformation indicative of a temperature of the engine 52 (such as may beobtained from a temperature sensor associated with the engine 52). Insome embodiments, the Temperature Gauge may present informationindicative of a temperature of the coolant used by the engine 52. TheTemperature Gauge may present relative values of the engine 52temperature or may present digital values (e.g., in Fahrenheit orCelsius). The Operations Screen may also present a Temperature Warningicon, which may be a warning alert that is activated to a highlightedcolor (e.g., red) when the engine 52 temperature exceeds a specifiedthreshold (e.g., “210” degrees Fahrenheit). In contrast, when the enginetemperature is below the specified threshold, the Temperature Warningicon may not be visible or it may not have a highlighted color (e.g.,the Temperature Warning icon may be uncolored or may be colored gray).Furthermore, in some embodiments, the Temperature Warning icon may flashwhen the engine 52 temperature exceeds a maximum specified threshold(e.g., “220” degrees Fahrenheit), so as to indicate to the operator thatthe loader 10 may be overheating. In some embodiments, when the engine52 temperature has exceeded a maximum specified threshold, the engine 52may automatically be shut off by the loader's control system.

The Operations Screen may also display a Fuel Gauge configured topresent information indicative of the fuel level of the loader 10. Forinstance, the engine 52 of the loader 10 may operate on diesel fuel,such that the loader 10 includes a fuel tank for supplying fuel (via afuel pump) to the engine 52. In some embodiments, the Fuel Gauge maypresent relative values (e.g., a percentage of a full fuel tank) or maypresent digital values (e.g., a number of gallons). The OperationsScreen may also present a Fuel Warning icon is activated to ahighlighted color (e.g., red) when the fuel level falls below aspecified threshold (e.g., below ten percent full), whereas when thefuel level is above the specified threshold, the Fuel Warning icon maynot be visible or it may not have a highlighted color (e.g., the FuelWarning icon may uncolored or may be colored gray). Furthermore, in someembodiments, the Fuel Warning icon may flash when the fuel level fallsbelow a minimum specified threshold (e.g., below five percent full), soas to indicate to the operator that the loader 10 may soon run out offuel and needs to be re-filled. The fuel level may be read from a fuellevel sensor (e.g., a float sensor) located within, or otherwiseassociated with, the fuel tank of the loader 10. In some embodiments,the data obtained from the fuel level sensor may be averaged so as toavoid any erroneous readings that may result when the loader 10 isoperating on an incline or over undulating terrain. In addition, eachtime the master switch 156 is turned on, the average value of the fuellevel sensor data may be reset to a starting average equal to aninstantaneous value of the fuel level so as to prevent any lag inimmediately reading the fuel level.

The Operations Screen may also display RPM data indicative of thecurrent rotations per minute (RPMs) of the engine 52. In someembodiments, the RPM data may be presented as a digital value (e.g., anumber rotations per minute). The RPM data will generally only showvalues when the engine 52 has been turned on and is running. The RPMs ofthe engine 52 may be increased and decreased by the operator's actuationof the engine speed lever 146. For example, pushing the lever 146forward may increase the RPMs of the engine 52, while pulling the lever146 rearward may decrease the RPMs of the engine 52.

Furthermore, the Operations Screen may display Engine Hour dataindicative of the total number of hours the engine 52 has operated. Insome embodiments, the Engine Hour data may be obtained from a timeractivated when the engine 52 is turned on. The Engine Hour data may bepresented as a digital value (e.g., a number hours). The OperationsScreen may also display Power Source data indicative of the currentvoltage of the loader's 10 electrical power source (e.g., a 12 Voltbattery). The Power Source data may be obtained from a voltmeterassociated with the loader's 10 power source. In some embodiments, thePower Source data may be presented as a digital value (e.g., a numberVolts). In certain embodiments, the Power Source data may be highlighteda particular color (e.g., red) or may flash if the power level of theloader's power source falls below a pre-selected value (e.g., thepre-selected value may be 11.5 Volts when the engine 52 is on and 13.0Volts when the engine is off). In additional embodiments, the OperationsScreen may further present Clock data indicative of the time of day.

In certain embodiments, the Operations Screen may provide various otherindicators and alerts for the operator. For example, the OperationsScreen may present an Operator Presence icon 163 indicative of whetheror not the operator is positioned on the platform 140. Such adetermination may be made by the presence sensors 141, which waspreviously described. The Operator Presence icon 163 may be highlightedwith a red color by default when an operator is not positioned on andsupported by the platform 140. However, the Operator Presence icon 163may be changed to a green color when the presence sensor 141 associatedwith the platform 140 indicates that the operator is positioned on andsupported by the platform 140 (i.e., the weight of the operator forcesthe platform 140 downward, triggering the presence sensor 141). In someembodiments, a buffer period (e.g., one second) may be used whenanalyzing data obtained from the presence sensor 141 so as to ensurethat the presence sensor 141 does not inadvertently indicate that anoperator is not on the platform 140 in cases of bouncing or shaking ofthe loader 10 (such as may cause the operator's weight to momentarilyshift upward away from the platform 140). As will be described in moredetail below, certain components of the hydraulic system of the loader10 may not be operated when an operator is not present on the platform140. Thus, the buffer period prevents problems with certain hydraulicfunctions of the loader 10 being disabled if the loader 10 drives overundulating terrain causing the presence sensor 141 to improperlyindicate (even for short, impulse moment) that the operator is notpresent on the platform 140. However, as will be described in moredetail below, in some embodiments, the loader 10 will include anoverride feature that permits certain hydraulic functions to be usedeven when an operator is not present on the platform 140 (e.g., when theoperator is standing or walking behind or beside the loader 10).

The Operations Screen may also present a Service Required icon, whichfunctions as a service reminder if the loader 10 is due (or is overdue)for services or maintenance to be performed. Examples of such servicesor maintenance include replacement of air filter, replacement of engine52 oil and filter, tension adjustment of fan belt, check and/or replacefuel filter, replacement of hydraulic oil and filter, replacement ofhydraulic tank breather, engine coolant replacement, etc. Embodimentsprovide for each of the service reminders to have individualized timeperiods or operational periods. For instance, the engine 52 oil andfilter may require replacement every two hundred engine 52 hours. Thus,after two hundred engine 52 hours, the Service Required icon may beactivated indicating that the engine 52 oil and filter need to bereplaced. However, other service reminders may be based on standard timeperiods, such as fan belts needing to be replaced after one year. As wasdescribed previously, the owner of the loader 10 (via use of the owner'spassword) may reset (i.e., deactivate) the Service Required icon uponthe service/maintenance being performed (e.g., after the engine 52 oiland filter being changed and/or the fan belt being replaced). Theindividualized time periods or operational periods within which theservices are required to be performed (i.e., before activation of theService Required icon) may also be set using the owner account. As such,the operator account may not, in some embodiments, be used to re-set theService Reminder icon or to establish the individualized time periods oroperational periods for the service reminders.

In addition to the service reminders, the Operations Screen may provideother indications, such as warning alerts, in instances where the loader10 is experiencing a problem malfunction. For example, the OperationsScreen present a warning alert in the form of an Air Cleaner Warningicon (e.g., highlighted in the color red) when the loader's 10 airfilter/cleaner is sensed to be restricted (e.g., via an air cleanerrestriction sensor associated with the loader's air filter/cleaner).Similarly, the Operations Screen may provide a warning alert in the formof a Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning icon upon the loader 10experiencing a drop in engine 52 oil pressure. In addition to the LowEngine Oil Pressure Warning icon, the Operations Screen may present thestatement “WARNING: LOW OIL PRESSURE. When safe, shutdown immediately toavoid engine damage,” if the engine 52 oil pressure is sensed (e.g., viaan oil pressure sensor associated with the engine 52) to have droppedbelow a normal operating pressure while the engine 52 is running. If thelow engine 52 oil pressure is sensed for a pre-established time period(e.g., six seconds), embodiments provides for the loader's 10 controlsystem to automatically shutdown the engine 52. In addition, theOperations Screen may present a new message stating “Engineauto-shutdown due to low oil pressure.” This new message may remain onthe Operations Screen until the operator selects a control element 145(or the touchscreen) acknowledging the low engine 52 oil pressure.

In certain embodiments, once the engine 52 of the loader 10 has beenstarted, the Operations Screen may present different information or maypermit the operator to perform different functions. For example, asillustrated in FIG. 31, the Operations Screen may include a STOP icon164 in place of the START icon 156. In a similar manner, however, theoperator can select the STOP icon 164 (e.g., via the control elements145 and/or touchscreen), so as to cause the engine 52 to turn off.Specifically, the selection of the STOP icon 164 may cause the fuel pumpto stop providing fuel to the engine 52, so that the engine 52 stops.Once the engine 52 is turned off, or alternatively, once the masterswitch 154 is turned off, once the engine 52 stalls, and/or once theengine's 50 RPMs fall below a pre-defined threshold, the OperationsScreen may revert to the version of the Operations Screen illustrated inFIG. 30.

Remaining with FIG. 31, the Operations Screen additionally presents theoperator with the option of initializing the hydraulic system of theloader 10 once the engine 52 has been started. For example, theOperations Screen may present a Hydraulic System icon 166, which whenselected (e.g., via a control element 145 and/or touchscreen), activatescertain functions of the loader's 10 hydraulic systems. For purposes ofthe present description, the hydraulic system of the loader 10 isgenerally grouped into performing the following functions: DriveFunctions, Loader Functions, and Attachment Functions. However, itshould be understood that such a listing is exemplary, and the hydraulicsystem of the loader 10 may perform other functions. The Drive Functionscorrespond to the movement of the loader 10 (e.g., forward, rearward,and turning), such as caused by the hydraulic pump 54 providing power(e.g., via the hydrostatic transmission) to the hydraulic motors 50. TheLoader Functions correspond to the movement of the loader arms 16 (e.g.,raising and lowering), such as caused by the hydraulic pump 54 providingpower to the actuators 76. The Attachment Functions correspond to thevarious functionalities of an attachment 18 supported by the loader arms16 (e.g., bucket tilt, hydraulic auxiliary functions, float functions,etc.), such as caused by the hydraulic pump 54 providing power to theattachment 18 (or to the loader arms 16 in case of the float functions).When the Hydraulic System icon 166 is deactivated, the icon may not behighlighted with a color (e.g., may not be visible or may be coloredgray) and/or may include a locked mechanical lock icon (See FIG. 31), soas to indicate to the operator that the loader's 10 hydraulic systemsare not activated. In contrast, once the Hydraulic System icon 166 hasbeen selected and the hydraulic systems are activated, the HydraulicSystem icon 166 may highlighted with a color (e.g., green) and/or mayinclude an unlocked mechanical lock indicator, as to indicate theoperator that the loader 10 that the hydraulic systems are at leastpartially activated.

For example, upon selection of the Hydraulic System icon 166 (with theengine 52 running), the loader's 10 hydraulic system may be permitted toprovide operating power to the components of the loader 10 to facilitateDrive Functions and Loader Functions. In such instance, stop element 59of the loader 10 may be retracted, such that the operator can maneuverthe loader 10. The Operations Screen may present the message “Park brakewill disengage. Drive and loader controls will be enabled. Operate withextreme caution.” In some embodiments, however, the engine 52 may berequired to be operating below a pre-established RPM level (e.g., lessthan 1500 RPMs) before the hydraulic system can be activated. If theengine's 52 RPMS are greater than the pre-established RPM level, theOperations Screen may present the message: “Reduce engine speed to lessthan 1500 RPM.” The engine speed may be reduced via actuation of theengine speed lever 146.

In some embodiments, the hydraulic system of the loader 10 may only beunlocked if the operator is present on the platform 140 (e.g., asdetermined by the presence sensor 141 previously described, and asindicated on the Operations Screen by Operator Presence icon 163).However, in other embodiments, the UICS 142 may include an override(e.g., a control element 145, touchscreen, or a separate element of theUICCS 142), which when selected, permits the hydraulic system of theloader 10 to be activated and used by the operator when the operator isnot positioned on the platform 140 (e.g., when the operator is standingor walking behind or beside the loader 10). In certain embodiments, theoverride will only permit the Drive Functionality and the LoaderFunctionality of the hydraulic system to be operational. In certainembodiments, the override will be turned off if the engine 52 shutsdown, if the hydraulic system is toggled off by the operator, and/or ifthe operator becomes present on the platform 140 (so that the overrideis not necessary).

If the operator does become present on the platform 140 of the loader 10(and with the engine 52 started and the hydraulic system activated),additional hydraulic functionality may be activated. FIG. 32 illustratesan Operations Screen whereby the Hydraulic System icon 166 isillustrated as being unlocked. In such instances, the AttachmentFunctions of the loader 10, such as the attachment's auxiliary hydraulicfunctions and the float functionality, may be made operational. In moredetail, once the loader's 10 hydraulic system has been activated (withthe operator present on the platform 140), the float and the hydraulicauxiliary functions of the attachments may be operable such that theoperator can control such functions via the LA&A joystick 148(b), as waspreviously described. In some embodiments, with the engine 52 started,with the operator present on the platform 140, and with the hydraulicsystem activated, the Operations Screen may present an Auxiliary Holdicon 168, as illustrated in FIG. 32. By default, the Auxiliary Hold icon168 will be deactivated, which is indicative of the hydraulic auxiliaryfunctions being set to On-Demand mode (See FIG. 32). The Auxiliary Holdicon 168 may be not be highlighted (e.g., not visible or colored gray)when not activated. Selecting the Auxiliary Hold icon 168 (e.g., via oneof the control elements 145 or touchscreen) will permit the Continuousmode of the auxiliary hydraulic functions to be activated. Whenactivated, the Auxiliary Hold icon 168 may be highlighted (e.g., with agreen color) and may include a plurality of circularly arranged arrows,as illustrated in FIG. 33.

As is shown in each of the Operations Screens 30-33, the UICS 142 maypresent the Menu icon 158, which when selected, presents a Menu Screenthat permits the operator to perform various administrative functionsfor the loader 10 and/or display various loader 10 related information.For example, the Menu Screen may permit the operator to view,change/update, and/or re-set the loader's 10 settings, servicereminders, safety alerts, and loader specifications, passwords,software, etc. The settings of the loader 10 may allow the operator todisplay and/or change one or more of the following: language displayedon the UICS 142 (e.g., English, Spanish, etc.), machine serial number,software version, etc. As was previously described, in some embodiments,an owner account may be required to change or update passcodes for anoperator account. As was noted previously, the loader 10 may havemultiple operators associated with the loader 10, with each having theirown unique operator account and/or passcode. The owner account mayindividually view and change passwords for each operator. In someembodiments, the owner account (or the master account) may also disablepasscode requirements, such that the loader 10 can be started andoperated without a passcode being entered via the UICS 142. In addition,as was noted previously, a master account may be required to view orchange the passcode for an owner. In certain embodiments, from thesettings, the owner may (via the owner account) view and/or change thescaling factor used by the auxiliary buttons 152(b) of the FA&A joystick148(b). In some embodiments, the settings may allow the operator or theowner to view the software version currently used on the loader 10. Thesoftware may be updated wirelessly (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth, or cellular)or via wired connection (e.g., USB, memory card, etc.). In certainembodiments, an owner account may be required to update the software ofthe loader 10.

Selecting the service reminders from the Menu Screen may permit theoperator to reset the loader's 10 service reminders (e.g., air filter,fuel filter, oil filter replacement, etc.), such as after theappropriate services have been performed. In some embodiments, as wasdescribed previously, an owner account may be required to reset or todefine the service reminders. Selecting the safety alerts from the MenuScreen may present any Warnings Alerts (e.g., low oil pressure) that theloader 10 is currently experiencing (or has experienced in the past). Insome embodiments, the owner account may be required to reset anyexisting Warning Alerts. Finally, selecting the loader 10 specificationsfrom the Menu Screen may display various loader 10 specifications to theoperator, such as fluid capacities, oil types, filter models, etc.

Finally, turning to FIGS. 26 and 27, the UICS 142 includes the controlpanel 22 on which the joysticks 148, graphic display 144, and controlelements 145 are located. In some embodiments, the control panel 22 maybe pivotally connected with the frame 12 of the loader 10, such that thecontrol panel 22 can pivot or rotate upward. With the control panel 22pivoted upward, as illustrated in FIG. 34, access is provided to certaininternal components located underneath the control panel 22. Forexample, upward rotation of the control panel 22 can allow access to thepilot control valve assemblies 158(a) and (b) extending from thejoysticks 148(a) and (b) on the opposite side of the control panel 22(as is perhaps best shown in FIG. 28). Returning to FIG. 34, a radiator170 and associated fan 172, which may be positioned below the controlpanel 22, may be accessed via the open control panel 22. The radiator170 and fan 172 are also shown in FIG. 27. Accessing the radiator 170and fan 172 from the open control panel 22 may facilitate quick andefficient addition of coolant to the radiator 170 (e.g., via radiatorcap 174 positioned on top of the radiator 170). The radiator 170 and fan172 may comprise a frame or shroud that houses interior components ofthe radiator 170 and fan 172. As shown in FIG. 34, the frame or shroudmay comprise an access port 176 that is accessible from the open controlpanel 22 and that allows a user to introduce a pressurized air nozzleinto the frame or shroud for cleaning the radiator 170 and/or fan 172,such as for blowing out debris from fins of the radiator 170.Specifically, this access port 176 is accessible upon the control panel22 being rotated upward and permits the user to insert a pressurized airhose and/or nozzle into the access port 174 to blow out the radiator170.

Recap of Certain Loader Embodiments

As described in the above description, embodiments of the presentinvention include a loader 10 that provides various benefits over priorart loaders. For example, the loader 10 may include a generally T-shapedframe 12, which permits at least a portion the tracks 40 to extendunderneath at least a portion of the loader's 10 frame 12. Such aconfiguration allows the loader 10 to be formed with a relatively narrowoverall width W1, but to also include oversized tracks 40. Benefits ofthis configuration include increased maneuverability and a more evendistribution of the loader's 10 load and weight onto the ground surface.

In addition, the loader 10 CUL may include tapered conical sprockets 44extending from the lateral sides (e.g., left side and right side 30, 32)of the frame 12 of the loader 10, which facilitates the ability of theloader 10 to include oversized tracks 40 with the reduced-width frame 12(i.e., having the overall width W1). The sprockets 44 extend laterallyoutward from each of the left side and right side 30, 32 of the frame 12and are generally in operable connection with the hydraulic motors 50(with the motors 50 being positioned in the interior compartment of theframe 12, each being adjacent to one of the left side and right side 30,32). The motors 50 are powered indirectly by an engine 52 (e.g., via ahydrostatic transmission associated with the hydraulic pump 54), withthe engine 52 being shifted rearward behind the motors 50. Such rearwardshifting of the engine 52 facilitates the ability of the loader 10 tohave a reduced width because the motors 50 are not required to bepositioned directly to the lateral sides of the engine 52. In someembodiments, the motors 50 may still require sufficient spacing topermit the flywheel 56 to be positioned between the motors 50.Nevertheless, the configuration of the conical sprockets 44 permits themotors 50 of the loader 10 to actuate the oversized tracks 40 while theloader 10 itself can maintain a reduced overall width W1. The rearwardshifting of the engine 52 also provides space for secondary, internalcomponents of the loader 10 to be positioned within the interiorcompartment presented inside the frame 12 of the loader 10. The rearwardshifting of the engine 52 further provides a rearward shifting of theloader's 10 center of gravity (due to the high weight of the engine 52),which improves load distribution and maneuverability of the loader 10.For example, the center of gravity of the loader 10 of embodiments ofthe present invention may be shifted rearward from the midpoint of thelength of the loader 10. Specifically, a distance from the front of theloader 10 to the center of gravity forms a ratio of between 55:45 to75:25, between 60:40 to 70:30, or about 65:35 with respect to a distancefrom the rear of the loader 10 to the center of gravity. Stateddifferently, the center of gravity of the loader 10 may be positionedabout 15% of the overall length of the loader 10 rearward from themidpoint of the loader's 10 length.

As noted above, the rearward positioning of the engine 52 also permitsother internal components of the loader 10 to be positioned within theinterior compartment of the loader 10 frame 12 (forward of the engine52). Such components include the various elements of the loader's 10hydraulic system (e.g., hydraulic pump 54, hydraulic reservoir,hydraulic lines, etc.), fuel tank, fuel lines, hydraulic filter, fuelfilter, water separator. Providing such components in the interiorcompartment of the frame 12, forward of the engine 52, improves accessto such components for service and maintenance), as well as inhibits thechance of liquids and fluids spilling onto the engine 52. In someembodiments, the loader 10 will include the hood 36 (which may be formedfrom plastic, fiberglass, or other similar material), which covers theinternal components of the loader 10 positioned within the internalspace of the frame 12. However, the hood 36 may be hingedly attached theframe 12, such that the hood 36 can be raised to provide easy access tosuch components (e.g., for service and maintenance, re-filling fluids,etc.).

In some embodiments, the engine 52 of the loader 10 may incorporate aturbo, which provides for higher torque at a lower RPM. As such, theloader 10 can incorporate the use of low-displacement motors 50, whichallow the loader 10 have an increased speed at lower RPMs. In someembodiments, a maximum ground speed of the loader can be at least 4.8MPH, at least 4.9 MPH, at least 5.0 MPH, at least 5.1 MPH, or at least5.2 MPH. Such enhanced ground speed is provided even with a lowhorsepower rating of the loader's 10 engine 52. For example, in someembodiments, the engine 52 may have a horsepower rating of less than 50horsepower, less than 40 horsepower, less than 30 horsepower, and/orless than 25 horsepower. The use of the turbo also permits the loader tooperate with a generally low noise level. In addition, the shape of theloader 10 frame 12 (i.e., the T-shaped frame 12) also functions toattenuate noise generated by the loader 10. The use of a muffler and thehood 36 (which may be made from plastic) may also function to reducenoise level of the loader 10.

In additional embodiments, the loader 10 may include an enhanced userinterface and control system (i.e., UICS 142), which includes severalfeatures that improve the ability of a user to operate and to receiveinformation related to the loader 10. The UICS 142 may be part of thecontrol station 20, so as to be positioned at a rear of the loader 10.As such, and operator can stand at and/or on the rear of the loader 10to operate the loader 10. In more detail, the UICS 142 may include agraphic display 144 and one or more control elements 145 associated withthe graphic display 144 (e.g., user inputs, such as buttons or switchespositioned below or otherwise adjacent to the graphic display 144),which allow the operator to interact with the GUIs presented by thegraphic display 144. In some embodiments, the graphic display 144 maycomprise a touchscreen, such that the control elements 145 are notnecessary to interact with the GUIs presented by the graphic display144.

As was described above, the UICS 142 may also include one or morejoystick 148 type controls for controlling various functions andfeatures of the loader 10. The graphic display 144 and the joysticks 148may be supported on the control panel 22 so as to be accessible fromabove the control panel 22. In some embodiments, the control panel 22may be configured to pivot upward, so as to provide access to internalcomponents located at a rear of the loader 10 and underneath the controlpanel 22. For example, the loader 10 may include the radiator 170 andfan 172 positioned behind the engine 52 and below the control panel 22.The ability of the control panel 22 to be pivoted upward allows accessto the radiator 170 and fan 172 so as to, for example, add coolant tothe radiator 170. In additional embodiments, the radiator 170 may beconfigured with a radiator frame or shroud with an access port 176 thatallows a user to introduce a pressurized air nozzle for cleaning (e.g.,blowing out) fins of the radiator 170. Such an access port 176 may bepositioned below the control panel 22, such that pivoting the controlpanel 22 permits the operator to insert the pressurized air nozzle intothe access port 176 to blow out the radiator 170. In some embodiments,the operator may also access the fan 172 and/or the fan belt (e.g., soas to adjust the tension of an alternator and/or fan belt or to replacethe belt) upon the control panel 22 having been pivoted upward. In someadditional embodiments, internal components of the loader's hydraulicsystem can be accessed upon the opening of the control panel 22. Forinstance, the pilot control valve assemblies 150(a) and (b) (andhydraulic lines) associated with the joysticks 148(a) and (b) may extenddownward below the control panel 22, while the joysticks 148(a) and (b)may extend upward from the control panel 22. As such, the pilot controlvalve assemblies 150(a) and (b) (and hydraulic lines) may be accessedefficiently once the control panel 22 has been pivoted upward.

Embodiments provide for the loader 10 to incorporate the use of thejoysticks 148 due, in part, to the use of the pilot control valveassemblies 150(a) and (b) (and hydraulic lines). In general, the pilotcontrol valve assemblies 150(a) and (b) can be used to separate alow-pressure side (the “low side”) of the loader's 10 hydraulic systemfrom a high-pressure side (the “high side”). Each of the joysticks148(a) and (b) may be operably connected with one of the pilot controlvalve assemblies 150(a) and (b). The pilot control valve assemblies150(a) and (b) are, in turn, configured to generate and output hydraulicpressure to the high-pressure side (“high side”) components of theloader's 10 hydraulic system. Such high side components may include, forinstance, the hydraulic pump 54, the hydraulic motors 50 that actuatethe tracks 40, the actuators 76 (e.g., hydraulic cylinders) that actuatethe loader arms 16, the tilt cylinder 151 that actuates the attachment18 (e.g., a bucket cylinder for tiling a bucket attachment), and/or thehydraulic auxiliary components of the attachment 18.

For example, the loader 10 may include a drive joystick 148(a) that canbe used to control the motion of the loader 10. As such, the drivejoystick 148(a) can be used to direct the loader 10 in a forwarddirection, a rearward direction, to turn left, or to turn right. Thedrive joystick 148(a) may extend upward from the control panel 22, suchthat a user may actuate the drive joystick 148(a) to move the loader 10.The pilot control valve assembly 150(a) may be connected underneath thedrive joystick 148(a) and extend below the control panel 22. Hydrauliclines may extend from the pilot control valve assembly 150(a) to thehydraulic pump 54 that is connected to the hydraulic motors 50 of theleft-side and right-side tracks 40. As such, actuation of the drivejoystick 148(a) will cause a corresponding actuation of the loader 10tracks 40 to cause movement of the loader 10. The low side of theloader's 10 hydraulic system may operate with hydraulic fluid that ispressurized to around 330 psi. This low pressurized hydraulic fluid isinput to the pump 54 as a control signal. The hydraulic pump 54 (and/orthe associated hydrostatic transmission) correspondingly outputs a highpressurized hydraulic fluid (e.g., about 4000 psi) to the high side ofthe loader's 10 hydraulic system, and particularly to the motors 50 tocause actuation of the sprockets 44 tracks 40, and movement of theloader 10.

Similarly, the LA&A joystick 148(b) may be used to control movement ofthe loader arms 16 (e.g., so as to raise and lower the attachment 18connected to the ends of the loader arms 16) and/or to actuate theattachment 18. Specifically, the LA&A joystick 148(b) may include apilot control valve assembly 150(b) (and associated hydraulic lines)that operate using hydraulic fluid pressurized to about 330 psi. Thepilot control valve assembly 150(b) can be connected to (1) theactuators 76 of the loader arms 16, and/or (2) the hydraulic auxiliarycomponents of the attachment 18. The pilot control valve assembly 150(b)may output hydraulic fluid to the high side loader arm 16 actuators 76and/or tilt cylinder 151 at a pressure of around 3000 psi. The pilotcontrol valve assembly 150(b) may output hydraulic fluid to the highside auxiliary components of the attachment 18 at a pressure of around2800 psi.

In some embodiments, the LA&A joystick 148(b) will control the loaderarms 16 (e.g., raising and lowering) by actuating the drive joystick148(a). In some of such embodiments, the LA&A joystick 148(b) willinclude one or more auxiliary buttons 152(b), which when depressed, willactivate auxiliary functions of the attachment 18 (if applicable). Inaddition, the LA&A joystick 148(b) may include a float button 152(a),which when depressed, permits the loader arms 16 to float along thesurface of the ground and follow the terrain, regardless of changes interrain.

As described above, an operator may operate the loader 10 from the rearof the loader 10. For example, the loader 10 may include the platform140 positioned near a bottom, rear of the frame 12. The operator maystand on the platform 140 to operate the loader (e.g., by actuating thecomponents of the UICS 142). In some embodiments, the platform 140 mayinclude a presence sensor 141 (e.g., an inductive proximity or pressuresensor), which is configured to deactivate certain components of thehydraulic system of the loader 10 when the operator is not standing onthe platform 140. For example, the low side pilot control valve assembly150 may be disabled when an operator is not standing on the platform140. In some additional embodiments, the loader 10 may include anoverride function (e.g., accessible as a component of the UICS 142) thatallows certain of the loader's 10 hydraulic systems to be operated(e.g., Drive Functionality and Loader Functionality) even when theoperator is not standing on the platform 140. In some embodiments, thepresence sensor 141 may be configured to deactivate components of theloader's 10 drive system 14 when the operator is not present on theplatform 140. For example, when the operator leaves the platform 140,the presence sensor 141 may send a signal to the loader's 10 controlsystem to engage the stop elements 59 with the sprockets 44 so as toprevent movement of the loader 10.

The graphic display 144 of the UICS 142 also includes several featuresthat enhance operation of the loader 10. For example, the graphicdisplay 144 may present a GUI in the form of a Login Screen, whichrequests that the operator enter a passcode (e.g., a numeric code, atextual code, alphanumeric code, etc.) for unlocking certain functionsand features of the loader 10 (including of the UICS 142). For example,prior to entry of a valid passcode, certain of the loader's 10 featuresmay be disabled, such as certain “low side” components of the loader'shydraulic system (e.g., the drive joystick 148(a) and/or LA&A joystick148(b)). Other features may also be disabled, such as the loader's 10work lights and glow plugs. Upon the operator entering a correct orvalid passcode, additional features of the UICS 142 may be unlocked,such as for instance, the ability for the operator to start the engine52 of the loader 10 (e.g., using a control element 145 or touchscreen).Thus, the operator may start the loader 10 without a physical key.Similarly, the operator may turn off the engine 52 of the loader withouta physical key (e.g., using a control element 145 or touchscreen). Insome instances, upon successfully entering the passcode, the passcodemay not need to be re-entered upon successive startups as long as suchsuccessive startups are performed within a predetermined period of time(e.g., 30 seconds).

In view of the above, certain embodiments of the loader 10 may providefor the loader 10 to include a keyless start mechanism configured topermit the loader 10 (and/or the engine 52) to be started without aphysical key. Such keyless start mechanism may also be used to permitthe loader 10 (and/or the engine 52) to be stopped without a physicalkey. In some embodiments, the keyless start mechanism will comprise thegraphic display 144, which is configured to present operationalinformation to the operator. As discussed above, the graphic display 144is configured to present a Login Screen prompting the operator for apasscode, whereby the engine 52 is prevented from being started until avalid passcode is entered via the UICS 142. In some embodiments, theoperator can enter the passcode via the plurality of control elements145, such that the engine 52 of the loader 10 can be started (and/orstopped) without a physical key. In other embodiments, the graphicdisplay 144 may be a touchscreen, and the operator can enter thepasscode via the touchscreen, such that the engine 52 of the loader 10can be started (and/or stopped) without a physical key. In some furtherembodiments, the UICS 142 may include an additional control element,such as a push button associated with the control panel 22. In suchembodiments, the keyless start mechanism may comprise the push button,such that an operator can start (and/or stop) the engine 52 of theloader 10 without a physical key by depressing the push button (e.g.,without requiring the input of a passcode).

Upon unlocking the UICS 142 with a valid passcode, the loader 10 mayalso permit power to be selectively distributed to the loader's 10hydraulic systems, work lights, glow plugs, etc. Specifically, theoperator may use the graphic display 144 (e.g., in conjunction with theassociated control elements 145 and/or the GUIs presented by the graphicdisplay 144) to selectively control the various functions and featuresof the loader 10, such as: turning on/off the hydraulic system (e.g.,including overriding the standard deactivation of the hydraulic systemwhen a user is not positioned on the platform 140), configuring theauxiliary hydraulic functions of the attachment 18 in either theOn-demand mode or the Continuous mode, setting the scaling factor usedby the buttons 152(a),(b) of the FA&A joystick 148(b) (e.g., as may benecessary for proper use of the auxiliary hydraulic functions of theattachment 18), to selectively engage or disengage the stop element 59(so as to functions as a parking break of the loader 10), turn the thelights of the loader 10 on/off (in some embodiments the lights may beassociated with a courtesy timer, such that the lights will remain onand will automatically shut off after a predetermined period of time haselapsed after the loader 10 has been turned off), and passcode entry.

The graphic display 144 may also be configured to present coloredgraphics, such as to present various types of operational information tothe operator. Such operational information may include (as was describedabove): engine hours, fuel level, engine RPM, engine temperature,battery voltage, day/time. The graphic display 144 may also presentoperational information in the form of service/maintenance reminders(e.g., air filter, fuel filter, oil filter replacement). Such remindersmay be based on time (e.g., a daily/weekly/monthly/yearly timer), enginehours, or based on various sensor data received from other loader 10sensors. For example, the loader 10 air filter may be associated with asensor (e.g., an airflow/pressure sensor) for indicating when the airfilter is clogged and needs to be cleaned/replaced. The graphic display144 may also present information indicative of the status of theloader's hydraulic system, such as (i) when the loader's 10 hydraulicsystem is activated, (ii) when the loader 10 is in Continuous mode,and/or (iii) when the loader 10 is in an On-Demand mode.

Furthermore, the loader 10 includes loader arms 16 that provide forvertical-lift operation with an extended reach. For example, when theloader 10 is equipped with an attachment 18 in the form of a bucket, theloader arms 16 may raise the bucket to an extendable height of at least84.7 inches and a forward reach of at least 28.3 inches (measured fromtangent of loader track 40 and with the bucket tilted/dumped 45 degreesdownward). To accomplish such enhanced height and reach capabilities,the loader arms 16 includes a unique travel path, as defined by the pathtraveled by the loader arm 16 hitch pin 68 when viewing the loader 10from a side elevation view. The travel path may approximate the functionƒ(x)=4.641e^(0.34x). Such a travel path of the loader arms 16 alsoprovides for enhanced breakout strength of the loader arms 16 andassociated attachments 18.

Although the invention has been described with reference to the one ormore embodiments illustrated in the figures, it is understood thatequivalents may be employed and substitutions made herein withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention as recited in the claims.

Having thus described one or more embodiments of the invention, what isclaimed as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent includesthe following:

What is claimed is:
 1. A compact utility loader comprising: a frame; afirst track and a second track positioned on either side of said frame;and a pair of loader arms, wherein said loader arms are configured tocouple with an attachment via a hitch plate and a hitch pin, whereinsaid compact utility loader is configured such that as the loader armsare raised and lowered, the hitch pin follows a path approximatelydefined by a curve f(x)=4.641e^(034x), wherein “x” represents ahorizontal direction and f(x) represents a vertical direction.
 2. Thecompact utility loader of claim 1, wherein the path travelled by thehitch pin deviates by no more than 1.5 inches in the horizontaldirection from the curve f(x)=4.641e^(0.34x).
 3. The compact utilityloader of claim 1, wherein when the loader arms are completely lowered,the hitch pin is positioned in a base position such that “x” equals 0and f(x) equals 4.641.
 4. The compact utility loader of claim 3, whereina maximum horizontal reach of said hitch pin is at least 6 inchesforward of the base position.
 5. The compact utility loader of claim 3,wherein a maximum vertical height of said hitch pin is at least 80inches above the base position.
 6. The compact utility loader of claim1, wherein the attachment is a bucket.
 7. The compact utility loader ofclaim 6, further comprising a tilt actuator configured to tilt thebucket.
 8. The compact utility loader of claim 1, wherein the attachmentis a hydraulically operated tool.
 9. The compact utility loader of claim8, wherein the attachment is a connected to a hydraulic system of thecompact utility loader via one or more hydraulic lines extending alongsaid loader arms.
 10. The compact utility loader of claim 9, wherein atleast one of said loader arms includes a line guide for receiving saidhydraulic lines.
 11. The compact utility loader of claim 10, whereinsaid line guide is ring-shaped.
 12. The compact utility loader of claim10, wherein said line guide is configured to rotate with respect to saidloader arms.
 13. The compact utility loader of claim 8, furthercomprising a joystick for controlling said loader arms.
 14. The compactutility loader of claim 13, wherein said joystick includes one or moredepressible buttons for controlling hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment.
 15. The compact utility loader of claim 14, wherein saidcompact utility loader is configurable such that the hydraulic auxiliaryfunctions of the attachment can operate in either an on-demand mode or acontinuous mode.
 16. The compact utility loader of claim 15, whereinwhen in the on-demand mode, depressing one of the depressible buttonsactivates the hydraulic auxiliary functions of the attachment, andreleasing the one depressible button de-activates the hydraulicauxiliary functions of the attachment.
 17. The compact utility loader ofclaim 15, wherein when in the continuous mode, depressing one of thedepressible buttons activates the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment, and depressing the one depressible button for a second,consecutive time deactivates the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment.
 18. The compact utility loader of claim 13, wherein at leastone of said one or more depressible buttons of said joystick isassociated a proportional control valve.
 19. The compact utility loaderof claim 13, wherein said joystick is a first joystick, and wherein saidcompact utility loader comprises a second joystick for controllingmovement of said compact utility loader.
 20. The compact utility loaderof claim 19, wherein each of said joysticks is associated with a pilotcontrol valve assembly configured to distribute hydraulic fluid based oninputs received on the joysticks.